Traditional Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: Case of Mt.Elgon in Kenya

Traditional conflict resolution mechanisms play a critical role in resolving conflicts at grassroot levels. These mechanisms emphasize the need for a society to be in peace for social good. It is argued that these mechanisms are closely bound with the social and economic realities of everyday life. Promotion of traditional conflict resolution mechanisms will strengthen social solidarity and contribute significantly to the maintenance of peace and social order in society. It is observed that there is a continued need for these mechanisms to resolve many of contemporary local, tribal and national conflicts. At the same time traditional conflict mechanisms need to adapt to the new global cultural milieu resulting from globalisation. They meed to be inclusive to represent all members of society and universally accepted to Human Rights standards. Through experiences of conflict and post conflict situations, these mechanisms have the capacity to bridge tradition and modernity to face challenges of the 21st century.