Mechanisms for mitigating inter-ethnic conflicts in the Kubasali Escarpment in Kakamega and Nandi counties, Kenya

Abstract

Inter-ethnic conflicts can undermine social cohesion, livelihoods and socioeconomic development, particularly where disputes over land, boundaries and shared resources remain unresolved. In Kubasali Escarpment, Kakamega and Nandi counties, tensions between the Luhya and Nandi communities have been associated with land ownership and boundary disputes, livestock grazing, crop destruction and access to shared resources. This study interrogated mechanisms mitigating inter-ethnic conflicts in Kubasali Escarpment, guided by Conflict Transformation Theory and Intergroup Contact Theory. Conflict Transformation Theory provided a framework for examining how dispute-resolution processes address grievances, relationships and institutional interactions, while Intergroup Contact Theory informed the examination of how cooperation, shared activities and interaction between the two communities may support peaceful coexistence. The study adopted an interpretivist philosophical approach and a mixed-methods design incorporating descriptive and historical research. The target population comprised 620 participants, including 384 household heads and 236 other participants drawn from relevant stakeholder groups. Data were collected using questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, observation checklists and documentary sources. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings showed that mediation was the most frequently reported dispute-resolution mechanism (56.0%), followed by negotiation (37.0%), litigation (4.9%) and arbitration (2.1%). Other reported approaches included public participation in decision-making (48.2%), formation of social groups (29.9%), improvement of social amenities (15.6%) and intermarriage (6.3%). Religious leaders were the most frequently identified stakeholders involved in conflict management (33.1%), followed by non-governmental organisations (25.0%), government authorities (21.1%), Nyumba Kumi (13.0%) and councils of elders (7.8%). Qualitative findings highlighted the importance of mediator neutrality, inclusive participation and intercommunity cooperation, while identifying mistrust, perceived ethnic favouritism, limited institutional capacity and weak coordination as constraints. The findings are consistent with the theoretical emphasis on constructive relationship-building and intergroup cooperation, although the reported frequencies do not independently establish the effectiveness of individual mechanisms. The study recommends strengthening mediation and negotiation, promoting inclusive community participation, supporting cross-community initiatives, building institutional capacity and improving coordination among stakeholders to support sustainable peaceful coexistence.