Dynamics Of Inter-Clan Conflict Between The Degodia And The Garre Of Mandera County, Kenya; 2008-2015

ABSTRACT

Various communities in Kenya have had conflicts over time with the pastoral communities taking the lead. More specifically the Northern part of Kenya registered several inter clan conflicts with Somali sub tribes fighting over resources. However, the Garre and the Degodia stand out as the two had adverse relations for several decades. This study therefore, focused on inter-clan conflicts between the Degodia and the Garre of Mandera County in the period 2008-2015.It seek to investigate the dynamics of inter-clan conflicts between the Degodia and the Garre in Mandera County. The main objectives were to examine the causes of inter- clan conflicts between the Degodia and the Garre in the period 2008-2010.Secondly, the study interrogated the implications of the political pact between the Garre and Murule clans on the inter-clan conflict between the Degodia and the Garre in the years of 2011-2015. Lastly, the study assessed the implications of devolution on inter-clan conflicts between the two clans named above. .A descriptive research design was used in the study and qualitative method was the main approach. The study used protracted social conflict theory. The study was carried out in Mandera County, in particular Rhamu Sub County and Mandera town, the County headquarters. The study targeted residents of Mandera County both male and female of 18 years and above. Purposive and snow balling sampling techniques were used in the study. Both primary and secondary data sources were used. Primary data was obtained from direct interactions with the respondents in the field through interviews and focus group discussions. Archival sources were also consulted and Secondary data was obtained from journals, published and unpublished books, theses, dissertations, conference papers, reports , newspapers and internet sources. The findings revealed that the major drivers of the conflict between the Garre and the Degodia are grazing land, pastures, water and political- economic exclusions in Mandera County. Additionally, the findings also revealed that the Garre Murule pact of 2013 intensified the Garre Degodia conflicts. It was also revealed that the conflict between the Garre and the Degodia took international dimension especially when each clan sought the support of their kinsmen in Ethiopia and Somalia. The findings of the study will be significant as it will help inform policy interventions in addressing interclan conflicts generally and specifically those in marginalized areas of North Eastern region in particular.