Factors Influencing Inter-Ethnic Conflict Between the Luo and Abagusii Communities in Angaga Village, Migori County, Kenya

Abstract

Conflict is a global phenomenon that afflicts all types of cultures. The presence of ethnic conflict in Kenya is as old as pre colonial rule in Africa. In spite of government and other institutions' desires for peace and tranquillity, inter-ethnic conflict in Kenya has c'ontinued to feature affecting many communities. Luo and Abagusii communities of Angaga Village have experienced sporadic inter-ethnic conflicts leading to occasional fights in the last two decades. The frequency and intensity of conflict in this village is amazingly worth examining. This study examined factors influencing inter-ethnic conflict between the communities living in Angaga. In particular, it examined the trend of inter-ethnic conflicts, analyzed socio-economic factors and examined the challenges facing conflict resolution efforts between the two larger communities of Luo and Abagusii. The study is based on the conflict theory advanced by Karl Max, which focuses on conflict where society is fragmented into groups that compete for social and economic resources. The study population were 2000 people living in Angaga village. Ninety five respondents were sampled using sample size table by Israel, G. (1992). Cross sectional survey design was employed. Multi-stage sampling was employed to categorize youths, women and men in equal homogenous groups. Snowballing method was used to identify people who may have lived in this area during times of conflict. Purposive sampling was used on key informers namely; elected ward representative, chief and his assistant. Triangulation of both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection was employed. Qualitative methods employed included Focus Group Discussions and in-depth interviews while quantitative method incorporated questionnaires. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically and presented through text and direct quotation. Quantitative data was analyzed using quantitative statistics namely the averages and percentages through the aid of Statistical Package for Social Science. Findings showed that 53.7%of respondents have experienced conflict with the neighbouring tribes. The disputes have occurred four times or more by 17.9% as confirmed by the results lead to displacement, loss of livelihood, property and death. Economic disparities were major causes of conflict with 68%of respondents confirming this. Findings further showed conflict resolutions systems failed to involve traditional ways of resolving conflict. No much research has been conducted in this area on inter-ethnic conflict. Communities need to be enlightened on the serious effects that conflict brings upon development. This area is far from other security posts and government should establish one there.