Promoting Peace and Security in Africa: the Role of Ngos a Case Study of Somalia
Abstract
Promoting peace and security in conflict states in Africa has attracted many actors and
stakeholders in the process. Initially the idea was that states are the only actors in peace and
security, however other actors have emerged and are making significant contributions in the
sector. This research is focused on the role NGOs play in promoting peace and security in
Somalia, the strategies used, the challenges and opportunities encountered in the promotion of
peace and conflict in Somalia. Over the years the topic of peace and security has been viewed as
that between states, however this research focus on the individual security and general wellbeing
while applying the human security theory. This research used both primary and secondary sources
to gather information. The secondary data collected gave information on traditional strategies
used by non-state actors. Primary information was obtained through the use of questionnaires and
Key Informants Interviews from 4 districts in Somalia targeting TVET trained youth and leaders
respectively. The research sought to find out how the human centered approaches have
contributed to peace and security in Somalia. Data was collected using the ODK tool and analyzed
through SPSS. This study found out that the root causes of conflict by youth joining the militia
group are lack of skills that can translate to economic gains, poverty and illiteracy. Over 60% of
interviewees did not have any form of education other than madrassa. Activities being
implemented to promote peace and security and were rated as effective by respondents include
disarmament and reintegration, impacting knowledge and skills through TVET, peace advocacy,
sports and culture. The research identified inadequate funding, inaccessibility and sustainability
as challenges peace and security programs encounter while youth leadership, community led
peace process, TVET training as some of the opportunities to further peace and security. In
conclusion, human centered approaches are more effective in promoting peace and security.
Publisher
University of Nairobi
Subject
Promoting Peace and SecurityRights
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United StatesUsage Rights
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/us/Collections
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