Paul, Sauti Moja Peace Coordinator: a personal story of reconciliation

by Tim Wright

Paul giving transport to a peace widow and baby.

Paul, a Rendille friend, had the best herd of dairy goats in Marsabit; they were his main source of income. I witnessed his anguish and anger, as he returned from the morgue where he had identified the mutilated body of his uncle who had been tortured and slaughtered by the enemy tribe. His uncle had been herding Paul’s prized goats when he was ambushed and forced to drive the animals to safe territory. Paul eventually learned who had stolen the animals, but the Chief from that area was afraid to recover them as that would jeopardize his life for being a traitor.  Paul’s reaction toward the Borana was hatred; he didn’t want to see or talk to them; he was afraid to go to town, as he might kill someone.
  

Paul in discussion with Borana peace widows.

He says that it is God’s miracle that he can tell Borana people how he felt, and has learned forgiveness with no burden of hatred.  He confirms that Borana are not bad people, and knows that all of us can do bad things. Today, Paul is an effective Peace Coordinator, knows some of the pain of widows of conflict, is passionately seeking reconciliation among enemies, and works on breaking down tribal, religious, and political barriers to peace and reconciliation. He demonstrates that there is another way.