For three days, the dusty grounds of Chemolingot transformed into a field of hope.

Drums, cheers, and the thud of footballs replaced the echoes of gunfire that have long haunted the North Rift. Communities from six counties once declared “dangerous and disturbed” — Baringo, West Pokot, Laikipia, Samburu, Elgeyo Marakwet, and Turkana — converged here for a peace tournament that was as much about unity as it was about sport.

The event, graced by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, drew together residents, leaders, and young people, all united under a single message: peace for progress.

Speaking as the chief guest, CS Murkomen urged residents to turn away from decades of violence that have defined the region.

His words resonated across the crowd — a reminder that peace is not just the responsibility of ordinary citizens but also of those entrusted with

Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi and Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wesley Rotich, who both attended the tournament, reminded the gathering that the region has lost precious years to conflict.

Governor Rotich echoed him, noting that infrastructure, schools, and livelihoods cannot thrive in an environment of fear.

Beyond the politicians, peace partners  also took center stage. Jane Labat, Head of Women Voices for Peace at ActionAid Kenya, emphasized the need to include women in peacebuilding.

Her words struck a chord, highlighting that reconciliation must be inclusive if it is to last.

From football to athletics, the games brought together youth who, under different circumstances, might have stood on opposite sides of conflict. Here, they shared teams, shook hands, and competed not for survival but for glory and friendship.

For decades, the North Rift has been synonymous with banditry, displacement, and loss. Now, initiatives like this peace tournament are offering a glimpse of a different future — one where football nets replace cattle raids, and running tracks replace escape routes.

As the final whistle blew in Chemolingot, it was not just the winning teams that celebrated. It was an entire region daring to dream that peace is possible.