Conflicts between pastoral communities in East Africa. Case study of the Pokot and Turkana

Abstract

This study examines the conflicts between pastoral communities in East Africa. It examines the causes and factors that have led to these conflicts. The conflicts between Turkana and Pokot of Turkana county and West Pokot county respectively have been analysed. Primary data was collected through questionnaires administered to both communities. Secondary data was collected from Newspaper reports, Annual reports, Development Plans, Journals and books. Data collected was used to analyse the causes of the conflicts and possible mitigation. The study identified boundary disputes and cattle rustlings as the major causes of the conflicts. The study established that the conflicts date back to 1924 during the colonial era. The respondents of the questionnaires gave suggestion of how the conflicts can be resolved. The study has identified areas where conflicts are serious and hot spots of the conflicts. Most of these are at the border of the two communities. This study recommends a systemic approach to the conflicts due to the fact that there are many actors and the fact that the conflicts extends to neighbouring countries. On top of this there are a number of factors that have led to the conflicts and why they have been sustained. Other recommendations include disarmament, education and provision of alternative sources of income. The study also recommends the involvement of the communities in the county planning and development projects.