THE ROLE OF CATHOLIC JUSTICE AND PEACE COMMISSION IN PEACE - BUILDING IN TURKANA COUNTY, KENYA, 1978 ─ 2007

Abstract

Although there is adequate literature on both humanitarian and development activities of NGOs in northern Kenya, and Turkana County in particular, there is little on the role of these civil societies in peace building in this conflict prone region. The Catholic Justice and Peace Commission (CJPC) is one such organization which has been working in Turkana County initiating community dialogue purposely to resolve or ameliorate the impact of conflicts in the county. Despite the Catholic Church having been present and working for and among the Turkana since the early colonial period, and CJPC from 1988, there is inadequate research on the role of the latter on peace building which is one of its key mandate. Consequently, this study examines the role and impact of the Catholic Justice and Peace Commission in peace building activities. To accomplish its stated objectives, the study has utilized the basic human needs paradigm formulated by John Burton and articulated by Abraham Maslow, and conflict theory derived from Marx and Simmel. In the study, it is argued that the aspects under examination and especially the sources of conflict derive from the physical, social and material conditions obtaining in Turkana County within the specified period. Data from both primary and secondary sources was analyzed, chapter by chapter, within the parameters set by the research problem and theoretical framework. Data was collated and then analysed through tables and charts, and by comparing the impact of peace building at different intervals within the stated period. The study established that CJPC has been visible and effective in their peace-building strategies such as civic education, paralegal awareness, conflict resolution, public forums and socio-cultural events. Equally, the livelihood support strategies such as education, alternative livelihood, medical and food aid has impacted positively on the community in its attempt to diversify its livelihoods and create a more sustainable economic base.