27 Aug 2014 Pastoralist Peace Initiative

Communication for Peace

Kenya

In 2008 KPJN held two successful meetings involving ex-combatants, government officials and women peace-builders to form a stakeholder umbrella body known as the Northern Kenya Peace Network. These journalists and activists now work together on peace-building initiatives, healing and peaceful coexistence. They also appear as ‘peace ambassadors’ on radio. Following a government review of amnesty legislation so that more combatants could surrender and join the rehabilitation process, KPJN drew up a plan for small arms and peace education. The project produced a DVD and is currently seeking further cooperation with other groups in the region. In 2009 KPJN carries out a series of activities aimed at peace education and sustainable development in 16 ‘hotspots’ in northern Kenya. A peace education and awareness campaign was carried out, addressing the different factors that fuel conflict and retard development, including cattle rustling, direct marginalization, resource competition (e.g. water, pasture and salt licks), prevalence of small arms and light weapons. The project stressed traditional governance systems and traditional methods of conflict resolution, promoted understanding and exchange between rival communities, trained ex-combatants on alternative livelihoods and re-integration into society. The programme was educative and brought sense of inter-clan belongings and relationships amongst various clans living in the vast marginalized province of Kenya.

Conflict and Peace Buildings in Nothern Kenya