Managing conflict in the horn of Africa: a comparative study of the African Union in Somalia and Sudan (Darfur)

Abstract

The effectiveness of conflict resolution as a technique in managing civil wars has gained increasing attention in today's international arena. Nonetheless, tie outcome of the strategy whether successful or failed- is dependent on a number of present or created conditions. Using the AU led Somalia and Darfur conflict management, this study compares the conflict resolution approaches identifying the determinants of successful and failed resolution outcome. This study targeted 30 individuals, from both Somalia and Darfur, involved in conflict resolution. The empirical result of the study confirmed a positive correlation between successful conflict management outcome and a 'ripe' moment for initiating mediation, mediator leverage and a suitable resolution strategy in each conflicting area. As part of recommendations, the conflicting parties should be ready and willing to come together and end their differences. This will make the work of the uniting parties simple. At the same time, the neighboring countries who are lucky enough to be living in peace should take the initiative to intervene in the conflicting countries where need be. The top officials in any government should lead by example. They should speak and live peace for the rest of the people to hear and see. This will decrease instances of conflicts in the various countries. This study also emphasized the need for further research on determinants of successful implementation of peace agreements.