INTER-ETHNIC CONFLICT RESOLUTION THROUGH CULTURAL NORMS AND PRACTICES INLAISAMIS SUB-COUNTY, MARSABIT COUNTY, KENYA

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