Role of Traditional Leadership Structures in Enhancing Inter-Ethnic Conflict Resolution in Laisamis Sub-County, Marsabit County, Kenya

Abstract

ABSTRACT Africa experiences significant levels of inter-ethnic conflict. These conflicts have caused loss of life and property, human displacement, cattle rustling and slow socio-economic growth. This study sought to investigate how cultural factors enhance inter-ethnic conflict resolution in Laisamis Sub-county, Marsabit County in Kenya. Specifically, the study sought to; to establish the extent to which traditional leadership structures enhance interethnic conflict resolution in Laisamis Sub-county, Marsabit County, Kenya. The study used mixed research design. The target population constituted 292 leaders of Laisamis Sub-county. A sample of 123 respondents was selected using both purposive and simple random sampling methods. The study used a questionnaire, key informant interview schedule and focus group discussions guide to collect data. Response from key informant interviews and focus group discussions were organized into themes and analyzed qualitatively. The findings were presented using frequencies and percentages. The results indicated that cultural factors do indeed enhance inter-ethnic conflict resolution in the study area. Majority of the respondents indicated that traditional leadership, have an influence on inter-ethnic conflict resolution in Laisamis Sub-county of Marsabit County. The study concluded that most of the conflicts in Laisamis could be resolved through effective traditional leadership also plays a role in enhancing conflict resolution in the area. This study is expected to add value to the existing theories on conflict resolution and to existing knowledge in the field of inter-ethnic conflict resolution. Besides, it is expected to provide information to different organs of the government and stakeholders with interest on the inter-ethnic conflict resolution. KEY WORDS: Conflict, Traditional Leadership Structures, Inter-Ethnic Conflict, and Resolution