MST-Department of Conflict Resolution and International Relations

Permanent URI for this collection

https://repository.ku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/19340

Browse

Recent Submissions

Now showing 1 - 20 of 96
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Role of Access to Natural Resources in Kenyan Conflicts: A Case of Narok County, 1992-2017
    (Kenyatta University, 2022-12) Oyaro, Chungo Dominic
    Abstract
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Role of eastern Africa standby force in conflict management in Eastern Africa Region
    (Kenyatta University, 2023-10) Karanja, Wanjira
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Use of Sports in the Promotion of Kenya’s Foreign Policy: The Case of Athletics; 1963-2021
    (Kenyatta University, 2023-04) Sati, Timothy John
    Abstract
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Change and Continuity in Land Tenure System and Gender Relations in Nyeri County, Kenya (1895-2013)
    (Kenyatta University, 2024-10) Mwangi , Grace
    In many human societies, rights to ownership of land, control and use determine the bargaining power of women in the society and the household, as well as determining their economic condition. Control of land and its efficient use are determined by the availability of land resources and existing social and institutional structures. This study examines changes in land tenure systems and gender relations in Mukurweini, Nyeri County, between 1895 and 2013. Land alienation among the Kikuyu, the subsequent consolidation ofland and the individual registration greatly impacted the land tenure systems among men and women. The women were greatly affected due to the existing patriarchal system that undermined/dictated the right ofwomen to land ownership. Being a historical study, this thesis highlights how the patriarchal land control ofland in pre-colonial Kikuyu land determined the immensity ofland access and use by the women and investigates land policies initiated by the colonial government in respect to ownership, access and control ofland by Kikuyu women. lt interrogates land policies in Kenya between 1963 and 2013 and their impact on Mukurweini women's access to and ownership of land. The study further examines the ramifications struggle for and institutionalization ofthe new constitutional order in Kenya between 1992 and 2013. The study is based on the assumption that the precolonial patriarchal land tenure system heavily determined the limited land access, use and control by the women of Mukurweini and that, the colonial land policies introduced in Kenya only served to perpetuate the existing patriarchal control of land among the Kikuyu. These policies were continued under the Kenyatta regime which remained basically patriarchal in regard to access, control and ownership of land by women. The third premise argues that the Moi regime initiated significant changes in respect to women and land matters, which in tum became a springboard for the thorough reforms realized in the new constitutional order in Kenya. Gender analysis was used as a tool ofanalysis to explain the land tenure system and gender relations in Mukurweini. The study adopted the historical design as well as the descriptive The instruments of data collection included questionnaires, research design. interviews, and materials from secondary sources and government records which include archival documents from the Kenya National Archives. It is argued that the establishment of colonial rule engendered new socio- economic trends that culminated in the partial abandonment ofthe Kikuyu pre-colonial land tenure system. This thesis concludes that the socio- economic relations between females and males in terms of access to and control over land as a resource has changed over time and decision making has also been influenced by the metamorphosis within the period of study.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Media Costruction on Global Terrorism: A Case on Kenya Media
    (Kenyatta University, 2023-11) Njuguna, Isaiah Ngigi
    Terrorism has always been rife especially the last two decades not only in Kenya but the whole globe, and specifically without forgetting the 9/11 attacks in the US. Transnational terrorism and delinquencies have obtained eminence with the coming up of novel media and international media broadcasting twenty-four hours. Nations are being confronted on their boundaries and their status in the global scene is in equal measure is being attacked by upcoming actors such as the terrorist groups and much more by the role played by both audio and print media to influence both public and foreign policy of states. The main objective of this research was to determine the construction of terrorism by media who are seen as supporters of global terrorism by their failure to gate keep and certainly setting an itinerary for the terrorists who have evidenced media as one of their crucial tools in the execution of violence on individuals. The research established how the media has set the public in the understanding of terrorism and its implication at the local and international levels. An interview with the key respondents was conducted to obtain primary data. 20 respondents were targeted to participate in the study. Secondary data was obtained from published and unpublished books, journals, and newspapers. Results showed that media framing has exacerbated ethnic or religious tensions in the aftermath of terrorism incidents, media framing as a security threat has impacted government policies and public attitudes toward national security and misinformation fueled by media perception has hindered rescue and response efforts on terrorism incidents. The study concludes that in all the four cases described in this study, the media portrayed these attacks as acts of terrorism aimed at causing fear, destruction, and casualties. They were not seen as self-defense or retaliation. These incidents were widely condemned by the international community and were considered to be massacres due to the intentional targeting of civilians. The study recommends the media to report accurately and responsibly on security-related issues to ensure that the public is well-informed and that policymakers can make rational decisions in the interest of national security.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Assessment of the Role of Preventive Diplomacy in Management of Water Security Disputes in the Nile River Basin, 1929 - 2023
    (Kenyatta University, 2024-08) Changullah, Gloria Lebbi
    Management of transboundary water resources is increasingly becoming a contentious issue among riparian states. This study examined management of transboundary water disputes which has become an international security issue among riparian states that lie along the Nile water basin through preventive diplomacy. The specific objectives of this study were to: investigate preventive diplomacy mechanisms employed by actors in the management of Water security disputes in Nile River Basin, assess effectiveness of preventive mechanisms in containing water security disputes in Nile River and to explore alternative mechanisms for the management of water security disputes in the Nile River Basin. This study reviewed scholarly works to shed light on study variables and objectives and applied the theoretical framework of problem-solving negotiation to demystify preventive diplomacy and management of water security disputes in the Nile River. To guide this study, cross- sectional survey design was used. This study was carried in the Nile Basin Initiative headquarters and Embassies of riparian states within East Africa. The target population was officials of the Nile Basin Initiative, officials from respective embassies and International Relations experts. A sample size of 130 respondents was used in this study. The qualitative and quantitative methodological approaches were employed to conduct the study. This study relied on both secondary and primary sources of data. Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews. Descriptive statistics were used in presenting and analyzing quantitative data while thematic and content analysis was applied in analyzing qualitative data presented in narratives and verbatim. The findings of the study revealed that there are various strategies employed by actors in management and containment of water disputes in Nile River Basin including treaties, consensus building, and the Nile River Basin Initiative. Despite these efforts, the preventive measures so far enacted have been largely ineffective, as stakeholders view them as insufficient and inapplicable. Furthermore, the findings revealed the alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation, arbitration, conciliation, and judicial settlement were seen as viable options in containing the disputes. The findings conclude that although various diplomatic efforts have been initiated, their effectiveness remains limited. To improve outcomes, this study recommends promoting conciliation among riparian states to facilitate voluntary participation in dispute resolution, enhancing regional integration among basin states, reducing dependency on single water sources, and encouraging more negotiations and judicial interventions to resolve the existing conflicts decisively.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Conflict Mapping and International Maritime Dispute Resolutions; Case of Kenya and Somalia (2014-2023)
    (Kenyatta University, 2024-09) Kitavi, Linda
    The primary objectives of this study were to examine the causes of the maritime disputes between Kenya and Somalia, utilize conflict mapping to identify key actors and their relationships, and assess the relevance of conflict mapping by analyzing the situation across Somalia's maritime border. Grounded in the theory of securitization, the research involved a comprehensive review of relevant literature, revealing significant gaps in the existing studies. A descriptive survey design was employed to collect detailed information about the conflict's historical context, key players, legal arguments, and potential resolutions. The target audience in Nairobi, Kenya, included representatives of embassies, government officials, international relations experts, maritime professionals, and civil society members. Stratified random sampling was used to select 160 survey respondents, ensuring representation from each stakeholder group. Additionally, key informant interviews were conducted with specific individuals to gather in-depth qualitative data. The primary data collection instruments were semi-structured interview guides and questionnaires, both of which were pretested to enhance their efficacy and clarity. To ensure the validity and reliability of the data collection methods, strict protocols were implemented. Quantitative data analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics to identify patterns and relationships, while thematic analysis was used to uncover recurring themes and perspectives in the qualitative data. Ethical considerations, including informed consent, participant anonymity, and privacy, were rigorously maintained throughout the research process. The study's findings indicated that territorial claims, overlapping exclusive economic zones (EEZs), historical disagreements, geopolitical interests, security concerns, governance issues, and legal frameworks were the primary causes of the conflict. The research provided valuable insights to the governments of Kenya and Somalia, international entities such as the United Nations, regional organizations including the African Union and IGAD, mediators and facilitators, oil and gas companies, and local communities. Through conflict mapping, evidence-based strategies for resolving maritime disputes were suggested. The study recommends that policymakers, mediators, and stakeholders work towards a peaceful and just resolution of the conflict.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Humanitarian Response and Peace Building in Conflict Situations: Case of International Federation of Red Cross in West Pokot County, Kenya
    (Kenyatta University, 2024-04) Odera, Geofrey Omondi
    The study sought to establish the efficacy of International Federation of Red Cross (IFRC) in promoting peace in West Pokot County. The study was guided by the following objectives: To establish the conflict situation in West Pokot County, to determine the intervention measures taken by the IFRC in peace building in West Pokot County, to establish whether beneficiaries are involved by IFRC in creating and implementing peacebuilding initiatives in West Pokot County and to identify barriers to IFRC's peace-building operations in West Pokot County.The study employed a descriptive research design and adopted both qualitative and quantitative research methods. The study targeted the staff of the Red Cross, members of the County government, opinion leaders and community members who are victims of conflict in West Pokot County. The study employed convenience sampling to select the respondents. The researcher sampled 15 Red Cross Staff, 3 members of the county government, 5 opinion leaders and 20 community members in West Pokot County. The study utilized a questionnaire for IFRC staff, a discussion guide for the focus group discussions, and an interview schedule for the key informant Informants. Piloting of the research instruments was done with a sample of 10 respondents in Chepareria sub-county, which was not included in the main study. Content validity was established through expert judgement whereas Cronbach’s coefficient alpha was used to establish the reliability of the instruments. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages and means were used to analyse quantitative data whereas content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. The study established that various types of conflicts, including resource-based, territorial, cultural, and politically motivated disputes, still exist in the region. These conflicts have had a significant impact on the county's population, resulting in loss of lives, property, school closures, and contributing to the region's poor economic growth. Further, the study established that the IFRC has put in place a number of intervention measures which are fairly effective in fostering peace in the County. In addition, the study established that the IFRC's principles provide a framework for its operations and that it has performance criteria that allow it to evaluate whether it is fulfilling its accountability commitments, however, it does not involve majority of community members in decision-making processes. As a result, community members reject the organization's efforts to promote peace because they believe that their opinions, concerns and suggestions are not given due consideration. Further, the study identified a number of factors that affect IFRC's peace-building operations in the County these include; insecurity, political interference, lack of commitment from stakeholders, inadequate funds, poor infrastructure, poor networks, and antagonism from communities. The study recommended that The IFRC should invest in long-term peace building programs. The communities need to build their resilience to disasters and conflicts, and to address the root causes of humanitarian crises, such as poverty and inequality. Furthermore, there is a need for capacity-building within the community, community members need to be trained in disaster response and conflict resolution to enhance self-reliance and reduce dependency on external aid. In addition, the IFRC and other humanitarian organizations must consider the cultural diversity of the populations they assist. They ought to refrain from endorsing remedies that are inappropriate from a cultural standpoint or that might make intergroup conflicts worse. Further, the IFRC should improve its accountability; this can be accomplished by putting in place appropriate routes for reporting to impacted communities, keeping in mind the crucial role that impacted communities should play in ensuring that their views are heard during relief operations.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Integration of Maritime Security in Addressing the Threats to Sustainable Development of Blue Economy in the Kenyan Coast (2010 - 2022)
    (Kenyatta University, 2024-06) Munyao, Andrew Isoongo
    The aim of the research was to examine the integration of maritime security into the blue economy, determine the impact of maritime governance structures on the development of the blue economy and explore strategies to improve maritime security integration along the Kenyan coast. The study was guided by three main objectives: to examine the nature of the integration of maritime security into the development of the blue economy, to assess the impact of maritime governance structures on this development and to analyze strategies to improve the integration of maritime security into the blue economy of the Kenya Coast. Based on neorealism (structural realism) and institutional theories, the study used a descriptive survey research design for a population of 228 individuals working in marine facilities on the Kenyan coast. A purposive sampling method was used, resulting in a sample size of 114 respondents, from whom closed-ended questionnaires with Likert scales were completed. Data analysis was conducted using percentages derived from Likert scale responses. Key findings showed that Kenyan maritime security agencies rarely cooperate with neighboring states. Despite Kenya's commendable efforts to improve maritime security and promote the development of the blue economy - as evidenced by the establishment of the Kenya Coast Guard Service (KCGS) and Navy patrol bases - critical challenges and gaps remain. Notably, there is a significant lack of effective cooperation between maritime security authorities on the Kenyan coast and with neighboring states, which hinders the formation of a coherent regional maritime security framework for the development of the blue economy. Furthermore, local community engagement, which is crucial for marine security in the blue economy, is insufficient and there is a significant need for marine research and education initiatives. The study also highlighted weaknesses in laws and policies and highlighted the need to improve interoperability and address collaboration limitations. The study recommends promoting collaboration with regional authorities and local communities, promoting marine research and education, establishing technical assistance programs, formulating comprehensive laws and policies, adopting an interagency approach, improving interoperability of laws and policies, and making investments in proactive maritime security research. Education and training to ensure robust development of the blue economy.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    The Nile Basin Initiative and the Transformation of Mara River Basin Water Conflict between Kenya and Tanzania
    (Kenyatta U niversity, 2024-06) Abdi Adan Tawane
    Regional institutions play a key role in the management of transboundary natural resources; they have been imperative in addressing unequal distribution, poor use and management, depletion and degradation of water resources; which if left unresolved could breed a potential for occurrence of conflicts, tensions and social unrest. Institutions help to build a common end goal that is geared towards management of these shared resources. This research focuses on the role of the Nile Basin Initiative in the management of xi transboundary water-related conflicts. The goal of the research was to assess how the Nile Basin Initiative through water security, dialogue in peace keeping, cooperative planning process has influenced transboundary conflicts between Kenya and Tanzania over the Mara River. Specifically, it analysed different aspects of the water security as a result of Nile Basin Initiative and its intervention in the Mara transboundary conflict; examine the peace building capability of Nile Basin Initiative in the Mara River Conflict and how it has fostered cooperation in shared transboundary water resources; and explored the challenges experienced by the NBI in the Mara River Conflict. To achieve this, the study utilized both the theories of Liberal institutionalism and Neo-functionalism to put the issue of institutions and transboundary conflict management into perspective. Primary data was acquired through household interviews and an interview schedule for key informants. The study found out that majority of the people living along the riparian states have been adversely affected by the water conflicts over the years. Increased population depletes the regions already low water supplies as demand from agriculture, industry, and domestic use rises. Kenya has gained a bigger share of Mara resources and authority. The successful handling of water resource conflict and resolving existing issues have not been completely successful between Kenya and Tanzania. After numerous conversations, hopes of achieving an agreement on the "water security" provision are fruitless. There are still a number of obstacles to overcome, including: a lack of financial support, local residents' ignorance of the issue and a lack of knowledge of the relevant skills, peace and security, and access to the remote areas. The study recommended that the communities should give environmental management first attention in order to safeguard the available water supplies and devise practical ways to adapt to and lessen the consequences of climate change. Subregional organizations should contact groups such as UNEP to work closely with them to include and integrate water issues into established protocols and programs of action. Inclusion of water issues in the protocols and frameworks of the various sub-regional organizations.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    The Role of the African Union in Coflict Resolution: Case of Darfur in Sudan (2001-2017)
    (Kenyatta University, 2022-11) Sakari, Leiticia Maureen; Joseph Wasonga
    Abstract
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Police-Community Partnership and Crime Reduction in Mombasa County, Kenya
    (Kenyatta University, 2023-01) Loboso, Philiph; Cyprian Kavivya
    Abstract
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Kenya’s National Interests and Peace Enforcement Missions: Case of AMISOM
    (Kenyatta University, 2022-11) Gicovi, Winfred Mukami; Francis Mulu
    According to recent trends, rallying together nations with specific national security interests is favoured as an intervention in combating insurgency. The ongoing turmoil in Somalia, and the continuous Al-Shabaab's threat to bordering nations, is concerning. Despite many regional and international organisations' actions, the situation continues to be fragile. The main objective of this study was to critically analyse the role of national interests in peace enforcement missions with the Republic of Kenya and AMISOM as the case study. The specific objectives of the study were to assess the national interests leading to Kenya's participation in AMISOM, to examine how the participation in AMISOM has affected the national interests of the republic of Kenya and to evaluate ways in which Kenya could have secured its national interest in its participation in AMISOM. A qualitative descriptive research design was utilized. The study used a sample of 116 participants. The study established that Kenya joined AMISOM so as to strongly and fervently protect its national interests which at that time, were under threats from Al Shabaab. These interests were strategic interests, national security interests, social interests, economic interests and political interests. The study established that Kenya’s national security interests were affected positively, economic interests were affected positively, social interests were affected positively, political interests were affected positively, and strategic interests were affected positively. The study established that strategies that Kenya can use in securing her national interests include formation of and seeking the interventions of a regional security organization with its neighbours, having a strong military force and pre-emptively actin on any threats towards its national interests, using diplomatic interventions such as soft power and developing a foreign policy and defence policy anchored on strong partnership with allied nations. The study recommends that Kenya should seek for and work towards greater engagement in regional formations that are focused on not only economic and social cooperation but also security cooperation so as to benefit from security operations, missions and cooperation that are pegged on regional organisations and institutions.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Social media and diplomatic communication between south Sudan and kenya (2011-2016)
    (Kenyatta university, 2023-01) Onchomba, Macharius z.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Assessing the Effectiveness of Civil – Military Coordination during Disaster Response Operations in Kenya: A Case Study of Solai Dam Tragedy in Nakuru County, Kenya
    (Kenyatta University, 2023) Kiumbani, Charles Muriithi; Leah Barasa
    The world has seen a significant rise in both human-made and natural disasters which demands a response from both civil and military organizations. Thus, coordination between~ civilian and military organizations is vital during disaster response to achieve an efficient and effective response, but unfortunately, coordination between miilitary and civil organizations remains elusive. In Kenya, military and civil organizations have had coordination problems and challenges during disaster response operations which have led to slow responses, high fatality, and mortality rates. The study sought to assess efficacy of Civil-Military coordination during disaster response operations, Solai Da.m Tragedy in Nakuru County Kenya. The study was guided by the following objectives; to establish the effectiveness of Civil-Military coordination in resources mobilization during the disaster response operation of the Solai Dam tragedy in Nakuru County; to study Civil-Military coordination effectiveness in communication during disaster response operation of the Solai Dam tragedy in Nakuru County; Analyze the lessons learned on the effectiveness of the Civil-Military coordination for future disaster preparedness in Nakuru County, Kenya; evaluate the moderating effect of disaster management policies on civil-military coordination during disaster response operations in Kenya. This study was informed by general systems theory. The study's target group included 395 respondents from the multi-agency response team and other stakeholders who were involved in the Solai dam accident. A descriptive research design was used. The study's 199 respondents were chosen by stratified random selection, and its major data were gathered through questionnaires, interviews, and focus groups. The researcher sought permission from the relevant authority before proceeding with data collection. A pilot study was undertaken by the researcher to evaluate the questionnaire's validity and reliability. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 23) was used in the cleaning and recording of data. The qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis while quantitative dgta was analyzed using descriptive, regression, and correlation analysis. Data presentation was done by the use of percentages, frequency tables, means, and narratives. The res'egrclx demonstrated a positive and statistically significant impact of Civil-Military coordination in resource mobilization and communication on the effectiveness of disaster response operations in Kenya. Based on the results of the study, it _concludes that civil-military coordination in resource mobilization and communication hgs a statistically and positive significant impact on disaster response qperatmns effectiveness in Kenya. The study recommends for Civil-Military organizations must i i i d relations to improve their command and control, understanding, knowledge, an : i ication. The study further legal and improve coordination in resource mobilization and communicat e recommends strict adherence and implementation of the existing policies, institutional frameworks on disaster managemen t.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    River Nile Basin Initiative and Regional Cooperation in Management of River Nile Water Resources
    (Kenyatta University, 2023-06) Cindy, Matilda Ngari; Joseph Wesonga