Discovery of 50 old graves in Marsabit sparks historical investigation

Authorities in Marsabit County launched investigations after the discovery of approximately 50 old graves in Korole area near the Chalbi Desert, a site believed to hold significant historical importance.

The graves were discovered on Tuesday afternoon by a herdsman grazing livestock in Mbagasi Village, Kambinye Sub-location, Kargi Location, within Laisamis Constituency.

Police officers visited the scene alongside officials from the local administration, including the area chief and ward administrator.

The team confirmed the presence of roughly 50 old graves scattered across the site before documenting and photographing the area.

Preliminary accounts from local residents suggest the burial site could date back to the colonial era. During the visit, officers interviewed 75-year-old retired catechist Edward, who recounted that the area once served as a settlement for Ethiopian refugees captured during the 1935 conflict involving Italian forces and Ethiopia.

According to the elder, the refugees lived under British colonial administration, where many are believed to have died from disease outbreaks and water-related hardships. He added that the hardships forced members of the Rendille community to relocate and eventually settle in present-day Kargi.

Police have preserved the scene and indicated that further investigations will be conducted to establish the origin, age and historical significance of the graves. A follow-up visit involving relevant authorities is expected as investigations continue.

Officials have not yet confirmed the identities of those buried at the site, and no exhumations have been announced. The findings are expected to guide the next phase of the investigation.