Dynamics of Cross-County Invasions and Implication on Socio-Economic Development of Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya
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Date
2024-07
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JAIS
Abstract
This study aimed at establishing the implication of cross-county invasions on socio-economic
development in Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya. The objectives of the study were to:
determine the dynamics of cross-county invasions in Elgeyo Marakwet County and to
identify the viable intervention strategies for sustainable peace and socio-economic
development. The study was anchored on Collier and Hoeffler’s Greed and Grievance Theory
which postulates that natural resources increase the likelihood of conflict onset and duration
as interested parties compete. The target population were the people working or domiciling in
Elgeyo Marakwet County who had experienced ramifications of cross-county invasions. The
sample size comprised the population domiciled in Endo Ward, which had witnessed past,
recurring and stark levels of cross-county attacks in addition to being contiguous to the
volatile counties of Baringo and West Pokot. The study employed the purposive sampling
technique, which ensured that information-rich respondents were reached for data collection
and for effective utilization of finite resources given the security and terrain challenges. Data
was gathered both quantitatively and qualitatively from primary and secondary sources
through semi-structured questionnaires, one-on-one interviews with key informants, Focused
Group Discussions (FGDs), observation and document analysis. The study found out that
cross-county invasions usually occurred in the study area with the leading crime being cattle
rustling and outright banditry. Additionally, fight over finite natural resources especially land,
water and pasture together with appalling proliferation of illicit weapons exacerbated these
attacks. The main source of these illicit weapons was the neighbouring countries and counties
notably South Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan and Uganda. Locally, the leading distributors
were Baringo, West Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, Isiolo and Marsabit in that order. The study
concluded that the Socio-economic status of the people of the study area was low due to
massive displacement, deaths, breakdown of public and social services, unemployment,
illiteracy and low-income levels. The study recommended that there is need for pursuit of
cultural dialogue through reconciliatory and peace meetings to encourage co-existence.
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Kilimo, D. Y & Hamasi, L. (2024). Dynamics of Cross-County Invasions and Implications on SocioEconomic development of Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya. Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies, 8(7), 314 - 335.