Post Conflict Socio-Economic Livelihood Strategies and Their Effects on Integration A Case of Resettled Persons in Rongai Location, Nakuru County

Abstract

This study examined the post-conflict socio-economic livelihoods strategies of resettled people and host community in Rongai Location of Nakuru County, Kenya. Specifically, the study examined socio-economic livelihood strategies of Resettled Persons and Host Community, strategies of enhancing self-reliance among Resettled Persons and Host Community and strategies adopted for the promotion of integration between Resettled Persons and Host Community. This study was informed by Impoverishment Risks and Reconstruction (IRR) model and Acculturation model. The IRR model was used to explicate some of the problems faced by conflict-induced resettlements. Acculturation model was used to explain the necessary conditions that both the host and newly Resettled Persons must embrace for effective community integration. The study was guided by Descriptive Survey Design. The study engaged 196 respondents selected through Stratified Random Sampling. Data collection was done through interview schedule, which were then analyzed descriptively. The study observed all the necessary ethical issues. The findings of the study indicate that farming, formal employment and small scale businesses formed the bedrock of the sources of livelihoods for the Resettled Persons and Host Community. However, there was skepticism among the respondents about the security and sustainability of these sources of livelihood owing to low rewards. Livelihood diversification, membership to informal self-help groups and engagement of several members of the households in livelihood pursuit were the main strategies for achieving self-reliance. Resource sharing, trust building, dispute management, intercommunity trade and self-help work were the strategies used in promoting community integration. The effectiveness of these strategies was hampered by government’s failure to consult the Host Community prior to the resettlement exercise. In terms of policy, the study recommends for the enactment of policies that comprehensively addresses resettlement of IDPs. This study also recommends further studies on the changing roles of women in postconflict situation especially women headed households.