President Moi of Kenya has declared a month-long amnesty from prosecution for people who surrender illegally-held firearms.

State-run radio said the president made the announcement during talks with local leaders from West Pokot, Marakwet and Baringo districts in western Kenya, which in recent weeks has been the scene of repeated clashes over cattle rustling.

He warned that in future, the government would punish whole communities if any of their members were involved in stealing cattle.