INFLUENCE OF DIPLOMATIC STRATEGIES ON CONFLICT RESOLUTION IN KHATUMO STATE, SOMALIA

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Published Apr 4, 2025
DOI https://doi.org/10.61426/business.v6i1.319

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ALI ABDIRAHMAN KHEIRE
Master’s Candidate, Department of Business Administration, School of Business and Economics, Kenya Methodist University, Kenya
FESTUS KINYUA RIUNGU, PhD
Lecturer, Department of Business Administration, School of Business and Economics, Kenya Methodist University, Kenya
FREDRICK OCHIENG, PhD
Lecturer, Department of Business Administration, School of Business and Economics, Kenya Methodist University, Kenya

Abstract

Conflict resolution in Khatumo State, Somalia, amidst ongoing strife with Somaliland forces, presents complex challenges fueled by territorial claims and political divisions. The conflict has caused civilian casualties and displacement, with 11 recent fatalities in the Sool region. This study explored the impact of diplomatic strategies—negotiation, mediation, recanalization, and reintegration—on conflict resolution in Khatumo. Guided by Conflict Resolution and Diplomatic Theories, the study employed a descriptive design to investigate these strategies. A target population of 500 diplomats was selected using stratified random sampling, resulting in 222 respondents. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire, validated by pilot testing and assessed for reliability using Cronbach's alpha. SPSS was used for data analysis, which aimed to explore relationships between diplomatic strategies and conflict resolution outcomes. The study reveals that negotiation, mediation, recanalization, and reintegration significantly impact conflict resolution in Khatumo State, Somalia. Negotiation shows the strongest effect with β=0.331, a p-value of 0.004, and a Beta of 0.521. Mediation (β=0.242, p=0.002, Beta=0.421) and recanalization (β=0.198, p=0.000, Beta=0.362) also play key roles. Reintegration has a β=0.211, p=0.001, and Beta=0.523, demonstrating its importance in fostering long-term peace. In Khatumo State, negotiation, mediation, recanalization, and reintegration are vital for conflict resolution, yet the process remains fragile due to internal and external challenges. The study recommended that, for improved conflict resolution, inclusive negotiation frameworks involving marginalized groups and external mediators should be established. Local leaders should be trained in negotiation, and mediation should be supported with resources for local mediators. Open communication channels should be maintained for recanalization, and reintegration programs should be expanded to provide vocational training, psychological support, and economic opportunities.

Article Details

Issue
Vol 6 No 1 (2025)
Section
Articles
Author Biographies

ALI ABDIRAHMAN KHEIRE, Master’s Candidate, Department of Business Administration, School of Business and Economics, Kenya Methodist University, Kenya

Master’s Candidate, Department of Business Administration, School of Business and Economics, Kenya Methodist University, Kenya

FESTUS KINYUA RIUNGU, PhD, Lecturer, Department of Business Administration, School of Business and Economics, Kenya Methodist University, Kenya

Lecturer, Department of Business Administration, School of Business and Economics, Kenya Methodist University, Kenya

FREDRICK OCHIENG, PhD, Lecturer, Department of Business Administration, School of Business and Economics, Kenya Methodist University, Kenya

Lecturer, Department of Business Administration, School of Business and Economics, Kenya Methodist University, Kenya

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