Community-Based Strategies of Controlling Small Arms and Light Weapons Proliferation in West Pokot County, Kenya
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Date
2022
Authors
Nyamohangah, Matiko Chris
Hamasi, Linnet
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
CEDRED
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of community-based strategies of curbing
small arms and light weapons proliferation in West Pokot County, Kenya. The study’s
motivation was based on the current prevalence of SALW among marginalized communities
in Kenya, which has led to widespread insecurity. The study is guided by the following
objectives; to evaluate the effectiveness of community-based strategies on curbing of SALW
and to assess the challenges facing approaches of curbing SALWs within West Pokot County.
Social Conflict Theory and System Theory of Conflict guide this study. This study employed
mixed methods research design. The study utilized both probability and non-probability
sampling techniques. Data was collected using questionnaires, focus group discussions and
key informant interviews. The quantitative data was then analysed using Statistical Package
for Social Scientists (SPSS) software while qualitative data was coded and analysed by doing
an analytic induction using the theories. The Study findings were then presented in tabular
format using percentages, frequencies and pie chart. Qualitative data was presented using
graphic and interactive timelines that helped in tracking how the SALW has unfolded over
time. Findings of this research showed that there is a problem in SALW in Pokot and
surrounding communities. The study also established that economic marginalisation,
historical rivalries, rites of passage and ethnic stereotypes all contributed to SALW. The
study further affirmed that, sporting activities such as football, racing among other activities
could act as alternative ways of sustaining security in west Pokot. The study concluded that
Consistent access to small arms and light weapons has created intermittent conflicts and
insecurity in pastoral regions in Kenya and, more specifically. The easy availability of SALW
has greatly contributed to the levels of death and destruction wrought by the raids and
conflicts in the region. Violent raid and conflicts have negatively impacted these
communities, not only through the loss of human lives and destruction of property but also by
limiting freedom of movement, contributing to the ineffective utilization of resources
necessitating community-based strategies like nyumba kumi, public intelligence gathering in
a bid to curb the menace.
Description
Article
Keywords
Community-Based Strategies, Small Arms and Light Weapons, Kenya, West Pokot County, Proliferation of Arms
Citation
Matiko, C. N & Hamasi, L. (2022). Community-Based Strategies Of Controlling Small Arms And Light Weapons Proliferation In West Pokot County, Kenya. Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies, 6(10), 34 – 48.