Historical and Current Perspectives on Inter-Ethnic Conflicts : A case study from northern Kenya

The book provides analysis of inter-ethnic conflict using historical narrative approach based on conflict between formerly brotherly communities of Gabbra and Borana from northern Kenya and southern Ethiopia. It provides background to the conflict by reflecting on the two communities relationships over historic timeline while pointing out issues that contributed to the straining of their ties which finally culminate into violent confrontations. The book does not provide subscriptive solution to the conflict but suggests that solution lies in addressing the root causes, though some of the causes such as ethnicity are difficult to heal. Such problems call for negotiations which require identification of common grounds for launching dialogue. Since the two communities share strong social cultural ties, the traditional conflict resolution mechanism can be used as the basis for negotiation.