Environmental Degradation and Inter- Ethnic Conflict in Meru County, Kenya
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Date
2024-12
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Kenyatta University
Abstract
Environmental degradation continues to be one of the most serious challenges in achieving Kenya's Vision 2030 sustainable development goals. For instance, parts of Meru County where this study was done experience persistent conflict from environmental degradation and depletion of the natural resources, due to farming and livestock raring. The conflict pits the agriculturist Meru and other communities who are pastoralists. This study sought to examine the contribution of environmental degradation on escalating inter-ethnic conflict in Meru County. The objectives of the study were to Assess the extent of environmental degradation and inter-ethnic conflict in Meru County. Investigate the contribution of environmental degradation on inter-ethnic conflict in Meru County. Examine the strategies to mitigate environmental degradation to de-escalate inter-ethnic conflict in Meru County. The study used Human needs theory to examine the contribution of environmental degradation on escalating inter-ethnic conflict. This study employed phenomenological study research design using qualitative approach. The study employed purposive sampling technique.The research instruments used were, interview guides and Focused Group Discussion guide (FDGs). The location of the study was Tigania East Sub-County, Meru County. The analysis of data was done thematically and presented as narrations and quoted verbatim. The study found that environmental degradation in Meru County is primarily driven by overgrazing, deforestation, and poor land management practices among others. These factors have led to soil erosion, water and pasture scarcity, and reduced agricultural productivity, which in turn escalate inter-ethnic conflicts between farmers and pastoralists. The analysis revealed that environmental degradation not only strains the already limited resources but also intensifies competition and disputes over land, pasture and water. The study concludes that there is a significant relationship between environmental degradation and escalating inter-ethnic conflicts in Meru County. Effective strategies to mitigate these issues include enhancing community engagement, implementing robust environmental policies, promoting sustainable land use practices, and fostering conflict resolution mechanisms. To address environmental degradation in Tigania East, Meru County, Kenya, prioritize sustainable agriculture, reforestation, and waste management to combat erosion and pollution. Engage the community in conservation efforts, strengthen policies against harmful activities, and integrate land use plans to balance conservation and development. Implement conflict resolution mechanisms and revive traditional practices to enhance resilience. Capacity building and advocacy are key to fostering sustainable practices and ensuring long-term environmental stewardship. The study recommends sustainable agricultural practices, such as agroforestry and organic farming, should be adopted to enhance pasture. The study also recommends community engagement through education and participatory initiatives as a vital way fostering local stewardship of natural resources reducing conflicts over natural resources. Finally the study recommends strengthening policy frameworks and enforcement mechanisms is necessary to curb illegal activities such as logging and charcoal burning. Integrated land-use plans that balance conservation with developmental needs can help mitigate resource-based conflicts, supported by robust conflict resolution mechanisms and governance reforms.
Description
A Research Project Submitted in Partial Fulfilment for the Award of Degree of Master of Arts in Peace and Conflict Management in the Department of Security, Diplomacy and Peace Studies, School of Law, Arts and Social Sciences Kenyatta University, December 2024.
Supervisor
George Oyombra