Women Participation in Conflict Management and Peace Building in Baragoi Samburu County

Abstract

This study was concerned with investigating women participation in conflict management and peace building in Baragoi Samburu County. The study was carried out in Baragoi Samburu County. The study objectives were; To examine the participation of women in peace building and conflict management in Baragoi Samburu County; To analyze the factors that affect women participation in peace building and conflict management in Baragoi Samburu County; To examine the role played by women in peace building and conflict management in Baragoi Samburu County. This study used an exploratory research design. Sampling of the respondents was done using snowball sampling technique. Qualitative data was collected using an interview guide through in-depth interviews with women participants in peace building in Baragoi. Qualitative data from key informant interviews and in-depth interview was analyzed thematically through content analysis. From the findings, it was established the women were instrumental in bringing long-lasting peace based on the extent of involvement in peace building. In addition, the involvement of all stakeholders was instrumental in peace building or conflict resolution. Strategies used by women in dealing with peace-building exercise include; discarding cultural practices hindering women to participate in peace building challenges were; intercommunity networking and social cohesion. The peace-building exercise was voluntary based and thus the women were committed to search for long lasting peace in the region. The role that women played as a peace builder include; through preaching peace and guidance and counseling. The study recommends that the government should conduct regular training on peace building, and conflict management to equip women with up to date knowledge and skills. This will make them effective in peace building, and conflict management.