WATER SCARCITY ROLE ON VIOLENT CONFLICTS AMONGST PASTORALIST COMMUNITIES IN TIATY SUB-COUNTY, BARINGO COUNTY KENYA
Abstract
This study delved into the intricate relationship between water scarcity and conflict dynamics within pastoralist communities, shedding light on the multifaceted factors that influence conflicts arising from resource scarcity. Through a comprehensive analysis of social, economic, and environmental dimensions, alongside conflict intensity and stakeholder involvement, the study seeks to offer a nuanced understanding of conflict drivers and inform effective mitigation strategies. The study’s theoretical framework was guided by the resource curse theory as well as the environmental scarcity theory. A descriptive research design was used and the target population for the study was 73,424 residents of Tiaty Sub County and through the use of multistage sampling, 156 respondents were chosen to participate in the study. Structured questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data. The collected data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21. Descriptive statistics were analysed and presented in percentages and frequencies while inferential statistics was analysed through the use of the Pearson correlation coefficient. The findings were presented in the form of tables. The researcher ensured careful ethical considerations. The correlation analysis to determine the effect of Social Factors on violent conflicts shows a significant correlation existed (r = 0.785, p < 0.05). Pearson’s correlations coefficient was higher than 0.5 suggestion a strong relationship existed between the two variables. The study had also sought to determine the effect of economic factors and violent conflicts, the analysis yielded a Pearson correlation coefficient of r = 0.746, p < 0.05; indicating that a strong relationship existed between the two variables. The study also sought to determine the effects of environmental factors on violent conflicts. The analysis yielded Pearson correlations coefficient is (r = 0.781, p< 0.05) to indicate a strong relationship between the two variables. Social Factors proved to have the highest positive correlation with Violent Conflicts It is evident that all the independent variables could explain the levels of Violent Conflicts in the region. Conflict and human security generating factors are closely intertwined. The prevalent conflicts and the declining environmental security in pastoral areas is a result of a combination of factors that include competition over scarce, vital natural resources. The situation is worsened by harsh climatic condition and ineffective management and utilization mechanisms.
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