| dc.description.abstract | Conflict can be defined as a disagreement through which parties involved perceive a
threat to their needs, interests or concern. It arises when two or more parties have
incompatible goals.
This study sought to assess the factors influencing continuous conflict between the
Tigania and Tharaka communities in Meru, Kenya. The motivation of the study was
based on the need to evaluate the root causes of this conflict that continues for years yet
the government security mechanisms are placed for conflict resolution. There also exist
indigenous institutions that traditionally have the ability for conflict management.
The study to Johan Galtung's conflict theory and analysis that seeks to understand the
root causes of conflicts, structure and dynamics of conflicts and its actors with an aim of
suggesting possible resolution strategies.
The methodology used in the study was descriptive analysis as it is not only restricted to
fact finding but also resulted in the formulation of important principles of knowledge and
solution to the significant problems. The researcher used questionnaire to collect data
from both the affected people and political leaders in Tigania and Tharaka Districts. An
interview schedule was also administered to collect data about the conflict. The
researcher used purposive sampling technique to select the sample size.
The study revealed that there exists continuous conflict between Tigania and Tharaka
communities of the greater Meru region. Access to and control of scarce resources was
found to be the main cause of the conflict. Other factors included politics for self interest,
border disputes, land adjudication ad government policy. The greatest impact of the
conflict was found to be disruption of economic activities, other factors include
environmental degradation, displacement of people, physical harm and death.
Intervention mechanisms include establishment of Njuri Ncheke border arbitration
committee and peace building initiatives through public barazas.
Resolving conflict is a very expensive process anywhere. For this reason, it is always
important to analyse a conflict thoroughly so as to discover possible means of resolving
it. The Tigania and Tharaka communities can use the intervention mechanisms that the
researcher has identified to resolve their conflict. The research study sought to add
knowledge on conflict resolution and maintenance of peace between communities, hence
will be helpful to communities in understanding ways and means of maintaining peace. | en |
