Understanding Intra-Ethnic Land Conflicts. Causes, Consequences, and Solutions in Kenya and their Impact on Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution

Professorial Dissertation from the year 2023 in the subject Politics - Region: Africa, Catholic University of Eastern Africa, language: English, abstract: The aim of this research paper is to delve into Dr. James Mwita's "Intra-Ethnic Land Conflict" theory, formulated in 2023, and scrutinize the causes and repercussions of intra-ethnic land conflicts, specifically within the Kenyan context. The theory underlines the close link between land ownership and ethnic identity, and indicates that land disputes can be viewed as threats to this identity. Shifts in land tenure systems and political instability are pinpointed as major contributors to intra-ethnic land conflict. Moreover, it discusses possible solutions to prevent or alleviate these conflicts. The theory outlined in this paper has profound implications for peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts in Africa and beyond.