Role Of The Kenya Defence Forces In Resolving Inter-Communal Conflicts In West Pokot And Turkana Counties, Kenya

Abstract

This study examined the role of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in resolving inter- communal conflicts along the border of West Pokot and Turkana Counties. The

objectives of the study were to identify the specific conflict resolution strategies employed by the Kenya Defence Forces in addressing inter-communal conflicts, assessing the impact and effectiveness of the Kenya Defence Forces' interventions in mitigating inter-communal conflict, and to investigate the operational challenges faced by the Kenya Defence Forces in their inter-communal conflict resolution efforts in West Pokot and Turkana Counties. The study considered Azar’s Theory of Conflict, the Realism Theory of Conflict Management, and the Securitization Theory. A descriptive research design was used in this investigation. The Local residents, KDF officers, Police commanders, chiefs, and county administrators were the subjects of this research. A mixed-method research design, quantitative and qualitative methods were applied in the study. Stratified Sampling and purposive sampling procedures were applied to select the subjects of the study based on the geographical area along the Turkana and West Pokot counties. The sample size was 105 respondents. A questionnaire designed to address the study's goals was used to gather data. Descriptive analysis was used to examine the data. Results are shown in the form of tables, charts, and figures when the data was coded and analyzed using descriptive analysis tools. Results contributed to a deeper understanding of how security issues were framed,

perceived, and managed in conflict-affected areas. The study found that inter- communal conflicts between communities in West Pokot and Turkana Counties are

recurrent and persistent, with sporadic outbreaks of violence occurring over several decades. The study also found that the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) have utilized several conflict resolution strategies to address inter-communal conflicts in West Pokot and Turkana Counties. The study also found that KDF interventions have contributed to a reduction in inter-communal conflict incidents in the region and the conflicts in West Pokot and Turkana Counties are deeply rooted in complex inter-communal dynamics, including historical grievances, competition over resources, and ethnic tensions. KDF should prioritize meaningful engagement with local communities, including community leaders, elders, and grassroots organizations, to better understand their perspectives, needs, and grievances; KDF personnel should undergo cultural sensitivity training to better understand the socio-cultural dynamics of the communities they serve; KDF should conduct a comprehensive analysis of the root causes, dynamics, and actors involved in inter-communal conflicts in the region and KDF needs to enhance intelligence gathering capabilities through investments in technology, training, and collaboration with local informants and intelligence agencies.