An Integrated Luo-Maasai Traditional Religious Model To Conflict Resolution

ABSTRACT

The human quest for harmony of man is the quest for “conflict Resolution”. African

people understand conflict in the life of a community of both the living and the living

dead. The study is about an Integrated Luo-Maasai Traditional Religious Model to

Conflict Resolution: A Case Study of Ogwedhi-Sigawa, Kenya. The study concentrated

on developing an integrated LM traditional conflict resolution model to conflict

resolution. The general objective of the research was to investigate an integrated

traditional religious conflict resolution among the Luo-Maasai communities of

Ogwedhi-Sigawa. The specific objectives that guided the study focused on the

examination of causes and effects of conflicts between Luo-Maasai (LM) communities

of Ogwedhi-Sigawa, Kenya; establishment of the role of elders and traditional religious

leaders in conflict resolution; and to ascertain traditional integrated ways of conflict

resolution between the LM communities. A conceptual integrated model of the LM

traditional conflict resolutions guided the research. The model identified areas of

similarities and differences that led to the formulation of Integrated Luo-Maasai

Traditional Religious Model to Conflict Resolution (ILMTRMCR). The area of study

covered: Sikawa, Upper Suna, Ndonyo, and Masarura locations of Migori and Narok

Counties of about a population of 18,000 people. Researcher used a descriptive design

that described the existing condition of the LM conflict by use of individual interviews

and group discussions, and observation. A non-probability sample method was used to

collect primary data where elders and religious leaders represented LM communities.

Selected respondents from the four locations of Ogwedhi-Sigawa did this purposively.

The data was analysed qualitatively by use of descriptive analysis where summarization

of key findings, explanation, interpretation and conclusion arrived at. The approach

assisted researcher to describe and analyse LM peoples’ cultures and behaviour in

relation to conflict resolution. The findings underscored the necessity of utilizing

ILMTRMCR that is associated with shared traditional religious concepts and values in

conflict resolution. The research discovered that land, struggle for wealth, cultural

values and beliefs caused conflict. This led to broken relationships, mistrust and enmity

between the two communities. It was as well disclosed that LM elders represents every

member of the community and they must be persons full of wisdom and understanding

in decision-making. To some extent they were and are expected to have power and

authority that is guided by mysterious powers. The research also revealed that LM

traditional religious leaders are instrumental in covenant making, and spiritual dynamics

of conflict resolution and reconciliation. The study established seven recommendation

areas that include sharing of LM border council of elders; involvement of traditional

religious leaders; LM marriage; traditional spiritual conflict resolution; cross border

trade and activities; covenant making and reconciliation.