The Roles of Rendille Women in Peace-building in Laisamis Constituency, Marsabit County

Abstract

The objective of this study was to examine the roles played by Rendille women in peace building in Laisamis Constituency, in Marsabit County. This study was guided by the human needs theory to shed light on how lack of human needs can influence conflicts. The study adopted a descriptive research design whose major aim is to describe in detail the involvement of Rendille women in peace-building in Laisamis Constituency in Marsabit County. A sample of 69 of these women at the grass-roots level constituted the sample. The population included young women (18-35 years of age) and adult women (over 35 years of age). The researcher used purposive sampling in order to find cases that enhance learning about the roles of Rendille women in the process of peace-building. Quota sampling was then employed to allow classification of the population into sub-groups, namely, young women and adult women. A random sample was then drawn from these sub-groups to ensure that all individuals have a chance to participate in the study. A questionnaire was used as the data collection tool in this study. Due to its qualitative nature, the findings were analyzed thematically and presented in the form of prose. The study findings indicate that the women are involved in peace building through singing of peace songs, attending peace meetings, seminars, work shops, being included in peace keeping committees and getting involved in teaching children the importance of peace keeping. They also join peace caravans, partner with peace building stakeholders such as government agents, nongovernmental organizations and security agents in the community. The study concluded that women play a leading role in the peace-building process in the Rendille community. The need for gender mainstreaming in organizations and government institutions in the area can, therefore, not be gainsaid as it will promote women having a greater input in peace-building processes in the area. The study recommends that women who are involved in peace-building should be supported by the government and other stakeholders by being provided with resources necessary for the execution of their mandate. Educating and training the women will enhance their capacity in seeking for peace in the region.