Conflict Resolution and peacemaking in Indigenous Systems: The Role of Traditional Authority among Pastoral Communities of the North Rift Region of Kenya

Abstract

From time immemorial, pastoral communities of the North Rift region of Kenya used their own indigenous approaches to conflict resolution and peacemaking. Religion and rituals were instrumental in the process of conflict resolution and peace making as well as in maintaining harmony and amicable coexistence in the society. Traditional authority, which at its highest level was embodied in a council of elders, played a prominent role in this respect. The elders 'knowledge and wisdom was pivotal in resolving intra-communaI as well as inter-communal conflict and safeguarding peace in the region. This paper provides an overview of some of these indigenous mechanisms of conflict resolution in order to demonstrate their relevance and potential applicability in mitigating modern-day conflicts among pastoral communities of the region.