Influence of Utilization of Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms by Leaders on Sustainable Conflict Resolution in Bungoma County, Kenya

The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of utilization of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms by leaders on sustainable conflict resolution in Bungoma county, Kenya. The study focused on identifying the various types of conflicts in Lwandanyi,Webuye and Cheptais Sub-Counties and the factors influencing the adoption of Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms with specific focus on mediation. The study explored the place of ADR in conflict resolution and the extent to which ADR is utilized by leaders. The sample size was comprised of grass root leaders. Simple random sampling and stratified random sampling methods were used to pick the required sample size for the study from the targeted population. The required data was collected using questionaires and interview schedules. The study found that leaders in Bungoma County appreciate and make use of ADR mechanisms in conflict resolution. Mediation mechanism was commonly cited as being used by leaders in addressing various forms of conflict. The study also found that land disputes are the commonest of all conflicts. This was attributed to historical land injustices especially in Mt. Elgon region where politicization of land allocations in the former white settler farms has led to long standing conflict between the Bukusu and the Sabaot communities. The study also revealed that most land disputes were arising due to lack of land ownership documents and rampant corruption at the lands’ ministry was blamed for this state of affairs. Based on the study findings, it was recommended that the National and County governments take decisive action to address the land grievances of the Sabaot community to stop the inter clan fighting and leaders be trained and equipped with skills and competencies necessary for conflict resolution. Keywords: Alternative Dispute Resolution, Leaders, Sustainable Conflict Resolution DOI: 10.7176/PPAR/11-6-06 Publication date:July 31st 202