| dc.description.abstract | This project report demonstrates the negative peace in Marsabit County. Peace seems too close,
yet too far, peace that is often times yearned, but proved very elusive. The project analyses
elements, practices and policies, which have contributed to a state of negative peace which these
communities have uneasily learnt to live with for many years. Despite the general cases of
ethnic conflicts having been on the rise in the County for some time, the most significant has
been the Gabra/Borana conflict which has developed resistance to intervention measures over
time and has been more intense since late 1990s. The project report gives an insight into various
factors that have undermined the achievement of positive peace in the area, particularly among
the above two communities.
The Gabra and Borana, despite sharing many cultural, ethnic and social affinities have
nevertheless lived in an environment of animosity marred with mistrust, confrontation
stereotyping and armed conflict. This has resulted in loss of innocent lives, destruction of
properties and diversion of efforts from the much needed development endeavours. The precious
resources and the bone of contention have always been water points and pastures for their
livestock, the only means of survival for the people of the area.
During the period of 1998 – 2012, the two communities have been at crossroads and the never
ending fight between the duo has paved way for more devastation. It was during this period that
the infamous Turbi massacre took place. The conflict has not entirely gone unheard and many
actors have worked tirelessly towards a lasting peace and stability. Notwithstanding many efforts
by various actors in trying to bridge the gap between peace and conflict, there has been illusive
peace in this part of the country which has curtailed social interactions among the communities.
In carrying out the study, a reasonably representative sample population was drawn from the
Gabra and Borana communities living in Marsabit and Marsabit North Districts of Marsabit
County.
Through secondary material and in-depth interviews with the Gabra and Borana community
living in Marsabit and Marsabit North District, the project gives insight into the range of factors
that have denied the communities a lasting peace. Bearing in mind the never ending conflict over
resources, which is reinforced by the outdated culture of revenge and the recently emerging
ethnic politics amid various other challenges, it is evident that peace between the Gabra and
Borana community has proved difficult to achieve. In the wake of the continued conflict, the
findings of the study show the despair and hopelessness of the communities in face of
insurmountable challenges that include centuries-old tribal prejudices, hopelessness for lack of
development or other opportunities, failure of the governance and the rule of law, divisive
politics, remote and distant public administration that failed to deliver services or development
and secure public order. | en |
