ROLE OF PEACE ORGANIZATIONS IN PEACE BUILDING; THE CONTRIBUTION OF NAIROBI PEACE INITIATIVE AFRICA IN KIBERA, KENYA; 2008-2015

Abstract

This research project attempts to give a critique of the peace building process in Kibera following the 2008 Post Election violence. In particular, the research assesses NPI-Africa’s peace building project in Kibera 2008-2015; with the ultimate objective of recommending better and more suitable ways of engaging peace organizations in peace building process epicenters of violence especially urban informal settlements such as Kibera within Kenya. The methodology and approach used by this research are premised on qualitative data analysed using thematic analysis. They included a preliminary review of global, regional and national literature on conflict early warning and early response systems and interviews with informants and observers. To ensure reliability, validity and adequacy of the process, equal participation of respondents was facilitated through purposive sampling for their inclusion. The research findings identified as relevant and viable did not only contribute to the available peace building knowledge, but also offered valuable insights into the current national debate on how to address the 2008 Post Election violence situation in Kibera and further endeavor for a peace loving nation. Based on the foregoing, the research recommended that there was need for empowerment of and resource-flow to communities living in hostile environments such as Kibera to enhance their effective participation in conflict early warning and early response. Furthermore, there was need for Nairobi Peace Initiative (NPI) Africa to develop a clear and shared monitoring and evaluation plan with other peace building entities that are context specific.