The Application of Collaboration Mechanisms as a Conflict Management Strategy among Pastoralist Communities and Ranchers in Laikipia County (2000-2022)
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Date
2025-02
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Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to investigate the collaborative mechanisms in conflict management among pastoralists and ranchers, using Laikipia County of Kenya as the focus. The contention of the study is that conflicts among pastoralist and ranchers due to the competition for natural resources and a thriving network of small-arms trade. The study examined the collaborative mechanisms in conflict management among pastoralists and ranchers. The study objective was to examine the application of collaboration mechanisms as a conflict management strategy among pastoralist communities and ranchers in Laikipia County (2000-2022). Descriptive survey design was used where both qualitative and quantitative data were collected to address the research questions. The target population included community leaders, ranchers, pastoralists who lived close by, employees of the Kenya Police Reserve (KPR), officers from the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, county government officials and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) involved in security issues. A sample size of n=106 respondents and key informants was used in the study and this number was determined using the Onwuegbuzie and Collins typology. Field data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires and interview guides. Government reports, e-books, research studies and journals served as the main sources of secondary data. Data was verified, categorized and presented according to themes that aligned with the goals of the study. The study findings contribute to existential knowledge by shedding light on cooperative conflict resolution techniques. All parties involved in humanitarian operations, peacekeeping, conflict intervention and peace and security studies will find the study very interesting. The study found that the main causes of conflict between ranchers and pastoralists in Laikipia County are land conversion, drought, erratic weather, political incitement and the spread of small arms. Although issues like mistrust, competition for resources and political meddling still exist, collaborative mechanisms like community dialogues, cooperative resource management and educational programs have proven effective in lowering tensions. To encourage long-term collaboration and settle disputes, the report suggests concentrating on resource management, tighter regulations on small arms, political accountability and bolstering governance frameworks.
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Esma, M. L & Hamasi, L. (2025). The Application of Collaboration Mechanisms as a Conflict Management Strategy between Pastoralist Communities and Ranchers in Laikipia County (2000-2022). Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies, 9(2), 54 – 66.