The role of the church in peace building process: a case study of the aftermath of election violence in Kibera (Kenya) from March 2008 to March 2009

Abstract

The study was on the role of the church in peace building in Kibera. It was looking at the effectiveness of that role. Further probe was on the programmes initiated by church in peace building process and the challenges encountered in the implementation process. The methodology used in this study is a case study of Kibera, which used both library and field research, where secondary data and primary data were obtained respectively. This was done through analysis of written documents for secondary data and through interviews scheduled for primary data.

The study used purposive sampling in which respondents were selected on the basis of their involvement in peace building. The theoretical framework used in this study is conflict transformation. This theory was found to be suited to the study because it goes beyond conflict resolution by addressing what we need to stop and also what we hope to build. It presents the problem of conflict resolution by addressing what we need to stop and also what we hope to build. It presents the problem of conflict as an opportunity to transform the relationships and the systems on which the relationships are embedded.

This study has found out that reconciliation is taking root in Kibera as a result of the church's involvement in peace building process. The joint rallies, inter-community games and cultural events organised by the church have built back the relationships and influenced co-existence of the community.