Press releases
New publication \ Peace came from the herders: Supporting peace amidst drought, food insecurity and conflict. Lessons from Marsabit country, Kenya
Violent conflicts play a crucial role in current food crises. In northern Kenya, the number of food insecure people is now at its highest level over a decade. At the same time, the politicization of livestock raiding as well as land contestations are of increasing concern. This Study Report analyses how the three factors of drought, hunger and violent conflict interrelate in Marsabit and recommends steps to build peace and overcome food insecurity.
Marsabit, the second largest county in Kenya, stands as a testament to the resilience
of its rural communities in the face of environmental risks and ethno-political violence. The county has experienced five consecutive seasons of drought, resulting in severe livestock losses and increased violent conflicts despite intercommunal reconciliation and peace-building efforts. BICC researcher Marie Müller-Koné points out the causes involved: “Violent conflicts in Marsabit are not merely driven by drought and resource scarcity. Instead, it is the heightened competition over land, state resources and political gains that continually fuel ethnic boundary-making and violence.”
Nevertheless, the authors argue that the growing difficulties in the region have created momentum for a sustainable peace process. One discussion group participant pointed out: "Peace started when herders from both communities met and started grazing together. They talked to each other and later met with the community elders. That’s how peace started to grow. ” Supporting these processes, Isacko Molu, Executive Director of Caritas Marsabit, finds a positive encouragement for further action: “It is highly important to support and complement these local peace initiatives.”
The Study Report was realised in cooperation with Caritas Germany and it's Kenyan Partners Caritas Marsabit and PACIDA. Please find the study report and recommendations for policy and action here: short and detailed report
Our authors
Dr Benjamin Etzhold: Senior Researcher with expertise in Refugee and migration studies, social geography, livelihoods of vulnerable populations, labour relations, food security
Marie Müller-Koné: Senior Researcher with expertise in resource conflicts and resource governance, ethnicisation of land conflicts, displacement