Abstract:
Ethnic communities violently compete for property, rights, jobs, education, language, social amenities and good
health care facilities. These conflicts have caused loss of life and property, human displacement, cattle rustling and
slow socio-economic growth. Indigenous conflict resolution strategies emphasize empathy, sharing, and
cooperation in coping with common challenges, emphasizing the essence of humanityThis study sought to
investigate how cultural factors enhance inter-ethnic conflict resolution in Laisamis Sub-county, Marsabit County
in Kenya. Specifically, 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.
Key words: Conflict Resolution, Inter-Ethnic, Cultural Norms and Practices
