Agro-Pastoral Conflicts And Cooperation In Kenya: The Case Of Orma And Pokomo In Tana Delta, 1992-2017

Abstract

This project paper looks at the various initiatives adopted by local communities in Tana River Delta to promote inter-ethnic cooperation between the Orma pastoralists and Pokomo farmers. Most of the published works on the study area tend to focus on the conflicting nature of the two communities in their relations. This study argues that the overly conflictual presentation by scholars about the issues in the study area obfuscates the reality and that there are moments of cooperation between these communities that need to be unraveled and explained. Accordingly this research project brought out the various peace initiatives that have been used in resolving farmer/ herder conflicts in the Tana Delta. The main hypothesis of the study is that an analysis of these peace initiatives by the local communities will give a more detailed and complete picture of inter-ethnic relations between the Orma and Pokomo. It was guided by three objectives; to examine causes of Orma-Pokomo conflicts, to assess the impact of this conflict and to analyze their various areas of cooperation at the grassroots level. The outcomes of the research draw on the Subaltern conceptual argument to explain how actors at the local level are as influential in determining inter-community peaceful relations just like external forces. The study was conducted in Garsen Constituency and which is found in the delta region. The project is based on archival research, review of both documented and published works as well as oral interviews with various respondents who are well versed with the patterns of farmer-herder relations in Tana Basin. The study used purposive sampling method and snowballing technique to identify respondents interviewed with a question guide. The data collected was analyzed qualitatively and presented in a narrative form. The study found out that indeed the Orma and Pokomo had developed various ways to promote peace between the two communities. These include use of Nyumba Kumi community policing, use of symbolism and rituals, economic diversification, promotion of education, sharing of social services in urban centers, using of sports as a tool of promoting coexistence, role of women and professionals from the area as well as community radio stations.