The Inter-ethnic Conflict Management in the Horn of Africa: the Case Study of the Borana and Rendile of Kenya

Abstract

Inter-community conflict has been a major problem among communities in the IGAD region. These conflicts have all been fuelled by a number of factors. To address the conflicts in the region, bodies such as IGAD and member states have developed and operationalized a number of conflict management initiatives in the region. Although, many studies have been carried out on inter-ethnic conflict management, there are few studies that have focused to understanding conflict management in devolved system of governance. This study thus sought to examine the question of inter community conflict management in the IGAD region focusing on the Borana and Rendille. The study was based on conflict transformation theory founded in the work of Galtung. The study used both primary and secondary data and targeted a sample size of 43 respondents which included key experts and practitioners on matters conflict management in the study communities. The findings of the study showed that conflict between Boran and Rendille are predominantly caused by resource related issues and culture. The findings also suggested that conflict has both direct and indirect effect on warring communities. The study findings also showed that conflict in the region have historical causes linked to the region and institutions. Finally, the findings indicated that a number of conflict management measures are in place, both top- down and bottom-up initiatives. The study thus conclude that the conflict management systems are still ineffective and there is need to tailor make specific initiatives to address conflicts between Borana and Rendille. The study recommends that negotiated democracy is adopted in inter community conflict management mechanisms among the Borana and Rendille communities. The study also recommends that resource management strategies is used for Conflict Resolution and that existing normative and institutional mechanism is strengthened to help in conflict management. Despite these measures the role of county government is conflict