| dc.description.abstract | The Northern Arid part of the republic of Kenya has experienced conflict for a long time. The conflict in this region can be described as protracted, it has been generally accepted that protracted conflict have a profound negative consequences for the people of the region and the county of Isiolo is located in that region. This study focused on the reasons why conflict resolution has not been achieved even as enormous resources were spent in the region.
The study narrowed down to the influence of government policy, culture, and natural resources in the conflict and its resolution. In reviewing literature related to peace building and conflict resolution in general, both theoretical and empirical literatures were utilized. Particularly, discussions on the theories of conflict management and conflict resolution, and their relationship with conflict resolution were examined. The study was mainly based on descriptive research design. Participants' were selected using cluster sampling techniques. Key informants were identified and interviews were conducted through the use of questionnaires. In addition in-depth interviews with opinion leaders were conducted. Descriptive statistics and graphical presentation were used.
The study established that government policy affects conflict resolution in Isiolo County. It was clear that endemic poverty and low levels of education in the border areas are major conflict drivers. The study also concludes that major natural resources that are conflict triggers in the county include water for livestock, pasture and grazing land. Climate change and a land tenure system that invests authority in institutions insensitive to unique requirements of pastoralists do not improve the situation. The study also deduces that cattle rustling, circumcision to mark the passage to adulthood, livestock numbers as an indicator of riches, dowry payment and female genital mutilation causes conflict in Isiolo County.
The study recommends that the government should increase the frequency of regular dialogue meetings, sensitize communities on importance of peace building, promote grassroots approach to peace building while avoiding workshops and boardroom level meetings that had achieved little in the past. Further, there is need to encourage social cohesion through appreciation of cultural differences and the promotion of, and appreciation for diversity. Unity in diversity should be taken as a possible avenue and opportunity to resolve conflicts in Isiolo County. | en_US |
