Community-Based Approaches to Peace Committee Formation: Lessons from Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya
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Date
2025-04
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CEDRED
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to analyze the factors contributing to the establishment of community-based peace committees in Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya. Literature was
reviewed on the theoretical frameworks of community-based conflict resolution, historical context and evolution of peace committees in Kenya and case studies on community
engagement in peacebuilding in Elgeyo Marakwet County. The study utilized a cross-sectional survey design to explore their role and effectiveness in managing inter-ethnic
conflicts, particularly between the Marakwet and Pokot communities. Primary data was collected through questionnaires distributed to 193 randomly selected participants across
Marakwet East and West sub-counties, supplemented by Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with 15 purposively chosen stakeholders, including government officials, elders and NonGovernmental Organizations (NGO) representatives. The findings revealed high community awareness and perceived effectiveness of peace committees, driven by frequent engagement
and alignment with local needs, bolstered by the inclusion of respected community figures and NGO support. However, challenges like political interference and funding shortages were
noted as barriers to neutrality and sustainability. The study concludes that this hybrid model of traditional mediation and modern support offers a replicable framework for peacebuilding,
recommending enhanced funding, protection from political influence and increased training and inclusivity to strengthen these efforts
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Citation
Bor, C. R & Muoka, B. (2025). Community-Based Approaches to Peace Committee Formation: Lessons from Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya. Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies, 9(4), 16 – 26.