Eldoret Catholic and ACK bishops in Eldoret yesterday issued a warning over rising ethnic hatred in the country ahead of the general elections.

"Even though we have achieved a lot in terms of peace and reconciliation, we have to take more measures to bulid a country where Kenyans have a sense of nationhood," said Bishop Cornelius Korir of the Catholic Diocese.

Korir said he has personally asked Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta and Eldoret North MP William Ruto to help reconcile and unite the communities in Rift Valley.

Bishop Christopher Ruto of the ACK Church urged the media to inform the public on the success of the reconciliation efforts.

"We want to see more coverage of the good things happening in our society. The media can use such information to let the country know that its possible for us to live together harmoniously," he said.

The two were speaking during a media beakfast meeting organised by the Champions of Peace Movement, which is advocating for peace and unity in the region ahead of the March 4 elections.

A representative of the US Embassy William Makeer and Richard Maina, the regional coordinator of Transparency International, were present at the meeting.

Meanwhile, the government has revived peace and security committees in Rift Valley ahead of the elections.

A series of peace meetings have been planned in Uasin Gishu and other areas.

Speaking in his office in Eldoret yesterday, Uasin Gishu county commissioner Abdi Hassan said the government will work with local leaders and other players to sensitise residents on the need of peace during the elections.

"We want to ensure that communities in this region remain united and co-exist peacefully," said Hassan who was speaking in his office in Eldoret town yesterday.