Bishop Willybard Lagho Calls for Peace After Violent Attacks in Adu Ward, Kilifi County
The Catholic Diocese of Malindi has expressed deep concern following violent inter-community attacks reported in Chambuu Village, Adu Ward, Kilifi County, which have left residents living in fear of further retaliatory violence.
The unrest erupted on Wednesday, 11th February 2026, after a confrontation involving a cattle herder from a neighbouring area who allegedly refused to move his herd away from local farmlands. The situation escalated into revenge attacks, resulting in the stabbing of three local men, the closure of Chambuu Pre-Primary School, and the torching of several thatched shelters associated with the pastoralist community.
Six people, including two children, are currently receiving treatment at Malindi District Hospital.
According to the area chief, Mr. Raymond Charo, nearly 100 displaced residents sought refuge at the Kenya Assemblies of God (KAG) Church on the same day.
In response, Bishop Willybard Lagho, together with local administration and community leaders, convened a reconciliatory meeting on Thursday, 12th February 2026, in Hawewanje Village. Both the farming residents and cattle herders’ community agreed to cooperate with authorities to ensure those responsible for the heinous acts are arrested and brought to justice.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) assured participants that suspects have been identified and will face the full force of the law. The meeting also resolved to establish a five-member peace committee to work closely with security officers in maintaining harmony.
Bishop Lagho urged both communities to reaffirm previous peaceful arrangements, including proper procedures for hiring grazing lands and the use of designated livestock corridors for accessing water.
“These attacks are isolated incidents,” the Bishop noted, “often occurring when herders move through Kilifi County during drought seasons in search of pasture. Once it rains, social tensions tend to subside.”
The Bishop highlighted climate change as an underlying driver of such conflicts, pointing to diminishing pasture, reduced water availability, and declining crop yields. He emphasized the need for long-term solutions, including adopting sustainable livestock practices such as feedlots and reducing herd sizes while maintaining economic viability.
A follow-up interfaith meeting involving Christian and Muslim leaders is scheduled for Tuesday, 17th February 2026.
As the holy seasons of Ramadan and Lent begin on Wednesday, 18th February, Bishop Lagho called upon all communities to pray earnestly for rain, peace, and reconciliation.
“Let us reject violence and embrace dialogue, justice, and unity as children of God,” the Bishop appealed.
Communication Office – Catholic Diocese of Malindi, Kenya
