5. Research Articles

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Browsing 5. Research Articles by Author "John R, Kisilu"

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    Ethnicity as a Tool to Pacify Religious Extremism: A Case Study of Intrastate Conflict in Somalia
    (2023) John R, Kisilu
    The clan system and religion in Somalia are the two most salient identities that define the fundamental social structure of the Somali nation. This structure has been the main unifying factor of the Somali people. Unfortunately, the same system is perceived to be a stumbling block to the resolution of the Somali intrastate conflict. Observably, the clan stands out as the central pillar of social structure in Somalia. It is the entry point into the livelihood of the Somali people. This paper explores the possibility of transforming the dominance of clan kinship into an opportunity for neutralizing the negative effect of religious extremism. The paper adopts the conflict transformation theory propounded by John Paul Lederach. The philosophical outlook of the article is positive peace as advanced by Galtung. Primary data were collected through questionnaires, focus group discussions (FGDs), and semi-structured interview schedules involving 223 respondents with knowledge about conflict issues in Somalia. Secondary data were collected through a literature review of books and journals. The study identified the clan as the potent outfit in Somalia which can engage the religious extremist group, Al Shabaab, in negotiation for peace. It is impossible to conquer the Al Shabaab as it operates within the population and has high adaptability by employing asymmetrical warfare tactics. Additionally, the government of Somalia is perceived by Al Shabaab as man-made and, therefore, an illegitimate, unworthy partner to negotiate with. Furthermore, engaging the group in negotiation is a dilemma; democracies do not negotiate with terror groups lest they legitimize them as the voice of the population. Therefore, the clan becomes the legible unit to handle the responsibility of negotiation between the government and the religious extremist group, Al Shabaab. The clan can also play a key role in reaching out to the youths who are targets of radicalization campaigns from extremist groups. The study recommends that the clan system in Somalia, as an important institution in the country, should be partnered with to provide a middle ground in the conflict and serve as a bridge between the state and the religious extremist group, Al Shabaab. The clan system is likely to bring homegrown solutions to the conflict.
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    Human-Wildlife Conflict Management: Towards a Comprehensive Strategies for Sustainable Coexistence in Conservancies in Laikipia County
    (2023) Samuel N, Kamande; Emily Okuto; John R, Kisilu
    The article explores the rampant issue of human-wildlife conflicts (HWC) in conservancies, primarily focusing on Laikipia County, Kenya. In response to the escalating global challenge of HWC, privately run conservancies have emerged as a proactive approach to safeguarding natural ecosystems while promoting responsible resource utilization. These conservancies also aim to reshape societal perceptions and behaviors regarding wildlife. However, the conservancies in Laikipia County currently face a significant HWC crisis due to the encroachment of human activities into wildlife habitats. This encroachment has led to adverse consequences for biodiversity conservation and local livelihoods. The insufficiency of existing control measures necessitates the development of comprehensive strategies that can effectively reduce conflicts, protect the interests of both human and wildlife populations, and ensure the long-term viability of conservancies. The study employs the socio-ecological systems (SES) theory as its foundational framework. Research within Laikipia County involves diverse participants, including conservancy staff, community leaders, and representatives from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) engaged in community outreach. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, utilizing questionnaires and interviews to collect primary and secondary data. Quantitative data is analyzed using SPSS version 21, while qualitative analysis uncovers underlying patterns and themes in the dataset. The study’s findings emphasize the pivotal role of community engagement and strategic land use planning in mitigating human-wildlife conflicts. The data highlights that private conservancies actively organize community training programs to raise awareness about the significance of wildlife conservation. Moreover, a shift in land use, explicitly transitioning from livestock rearing to cropland cultivation, emerges as a viable strategy for reducing conflict incidents in Laikipia County. The SES theory underscores the importance of understanding both social and ecological factors for coexistence. Social acceptability influences attitudes towards wildlife, impacting conflict dynamics and conservation efforts. Striking a balance between environmental diversity and social acceptability is crucial for effective conflict resolution. The study’s results reveal how conservancies’ impact on local lifestyles can influence attitudes and values, potentially leading to conflicts between humans and wildlife.
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    Implication of Public Policy Interventions on Inter-Ethnic Conflict in Isiolo County
    (2023) Kariithi A, Charles; John R, Kisilu
    Public policies are among some solutions states use to address inter-ethnic conflicts. The state is responsible for protecting the welfare of its citizenry, which is why the government strives to identify solutions to resolve conflicts within its borders. The study was anchored on Stakeholder Approach in Conflict Analysis. This study adopted the descriptive survey research method employing a mixture of qualitative and quantitative methods in the research process. The study was conducted in Isiolo County. The research employed probability and non-probability sampling techniques. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0, while qualitative data was analyzed using the thematic analysis method. The findings indicated that policy interventions to improve the road infrastructure would open viable markets and limit banditry attacks along the highways. Alternate sources of economic livelihoods, enabling security to allow uninterrupted access to education, availability of social amenities, and developing an early warning system to deter inter-ethnic conflicts before they escalate would be a proactive policy framework. The study recommended that equitable representation of the communities in the county government, involvement of all stakeholders in the efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure food security, Youth fund to provide alternative sources of employment, and provision of quality education to the children can be adequate public intervention measures by the government which could help resolve the inter-ethnic conflicts in Isiolo County.
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    The Contribution of Science and Technology in Countering Violent Extremism in Lamu County, Kenya
    (2023) Joseph M, Kaku; John R, Kisilu
    This study examines the role of science and technology in countering violent extremism (CVE) in Lamu County, Kenya. The study employed a descriptive research design and mixed-method cross-sectional survey approach, focusing on multi-agency team operations, specifically emphasizing Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) activities in the Boni Forest. The research population comprised key stakeholders and practitioners involved in CVE efforts, totaling 120 officers. A purposive sampling technique ensured diversity within the sample based on participants’ expertise, background, functional areas, departments, age, and units within the Kenya Defence Forces. Data collection involved structured questionnaires and key informant interviews for primary and secondary data from books, journals, and operating procedures. Quantitative data analysis employed SPSS for descriptive statistics, while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative data. The study reveals that science and technology have been integral to Kenya’s CVE efforts, with the National Counter- Terrorism Center (NCTC) playing a significant role in intelligence gathering and analysis using technology. Collaboration with international agencies allowed sharing of intelligence, aiding the prediction of attacks and identification of areas with prevalent radicalization. Surveillance technologies like drones and CCTV cameras have enhanced monitoring in high-risk areas, leading to effective response measures. Moreover, mobile money transfer systems like M-Pesa are beneficial and susceptible to misuse in financing terrorist activities, emphasizing the importance of partnerships between financial institutions and security agencies. The study recommended integrating science and technology with community engagement, education, and policy initiatives. It underscores the need for a comprehensive community-centered strategy in Lamu County, fostering partnership and trust between the government and local communities. Continuous research, capacity building, and counter-narratives using technology are essential for sustained progress in countering violent extremism. While science and technology offer invaluable tools, collaboration, and holistic approaches remain vital to achieving comprehensive results and maintaining national security.