This is an entry from one of our correspondents in Kenya. We will not reveal his name to protect his privacy.
Somalia, a country to the North Eastern corner of Kenya, has been economically and politically disenfranchised and suspicious of the Southern neighbor. Efforts for peace have been thwarted by the warlords who seek to rule Somaliland.
In October 2011, after a wage of terrorist attacks by Alshabab, Kenya decided to take the offensive and go into Somalia to wipe out Alshabab. The operation “Linda Nchi” a Swahili word which means “Protect the Nation/Country” was launched, with Kenyan troops going into Somalia to hunt Alshabab militants. Little did the peace-loving citizens know what would be in store for them.
Despite Alshabab attacks in Kenya since 2011, citizens did not pay much attention to them till 21st September 2013, when the West Gate Mall Attack took place. The senseless killing of innocent people shook the country and the world at large. Suddenly we were all afraid. The President of the nation lost a relative in the attack. We were afraid.
Alshabab in their confidence after that attack, even started attacking Public Service Vehicles; nobody would get into a bus without fear in their hearts, but life had to go on; people had to bear the risks. The security apparatus, down to the grassroots, had to be alert at all times. It was a time of great fear.
We were used to walking into buildings without being frisked, but after that day, we all accepted that the frisking was for our own good. Everywhere, people looked at one another with suspicious eyes. If you moved to a new neighborhood, people would be afraid.
But the resilience of the Kenyan people overcame the fear; we soon began to walk in pride and peace; accepting even those who came from Somalia, because that is our nature. We are a peaceful and loving people.
Today, the Alshabab is still trying to make inroads to destabilize the security of the country, but we all stand firm. Diamonds, are precious, but they come from great pressure. No longer shall we look at one another with suspicious eyes; we shall embrace one another with peace, love and unity. We shall be as beautiful, and tough as diamonds.
Personally, I would like to extend my arm to all who are disenfranchised; feeling that they have been marginalized; feeling that they must lash out so they can be heard. They can come peacefully, and discuss issues deeply and peacefully. This is my call to all people; let there be peace.
Let us embrace one another. We may come from different religions and cultures, but we are all humans. Like my soon-to-be-wife, who has showed me that despite coming from different countries, we can still care about one another, I call to all people. Let us be one.
Let us all come together and build a world of peace, love and unity. It may seem like a tremendous challenge, but if we individually change, then the whole world will change. If we personally bear the responsibility, then there will be a shift that will keep the flames of global peace burning. It is up to you and I. Give me a smile and a wave of greeting as I pass by you, and we will all be bound by that simple wave.