Statist Transformation of Inter-Ethnic Identity Issues in the Management of Inter-Ethnic Conflicts in Bungoma County, Kenya.

Abstract

Intra and inter-ethnic identities, built over time buttress inter-ethnic conflicts globally. In Kenya, specifically in Bungoma inter-ethnic identity issues, the socio-historical, cultural, ethnic and geographical factors defined 1963 and subsequent conflicts including the 1992 unparalleled conflict in the region. Specific objective of the study was to examine the statist inter-ethnic integration of inter-ethnic identity issues in management of inter-ethnic conflicts in Bungoma County. The study was guided by a conceptual framework underpinned by Galtung’s Conflict Triangle and Lederach’s Conflict Transformation theories. A descriptive research design was used, while the study was conducted in Bungoma County. Simple Radom and Purposive sampling procedures were used to select a sample size of 400 participants derived from 1375065 populations, using Yamane 1967 formula. Questionnaires, interviews, FGD and document analysis, were instruments used. Data was analysed both quantitatively by MS Excel and qualitatively through thematization, corroboration and verification. The study findings were, inter-ethnic (different histories scored 50%, varying cultural identity 40% and varied geographical location 10%), while inter-ethnic social influence were: (in-born hatred 17%, value differences 18%, cultural dissimilarity 17%, unfair distribution of education 17%, varying norms 17% and religious rivalry 14%) and inter-ethnic negative ethnicity scores were: (except for the driver of negative ethnicity that is politicians using ethnic differences for political expediency which scored 16%, the inter- ethnic perception, inter-ethnic majority-minority issues, ethnic fear of survival, inter-ethnic inequitable access to power, historical injustices and inter-ethnic chauvinism scored 14% each) in accounting for identity issues influencing inter-ethnic conflict in Bungoma County. Statist anti-inter-ethnic; hatred, values, culture and religious structures were glimpses integrated into the constitution. The study recommends translation of inter-ethnic conflict and peacebuilding in Bungoma into creative art and documentary in order to increase awareness of avenues of inter-ethnic integration of identity issues in management of inter-ethnic conflict in Bungoma County.