The Relationship Between Cross-Border Conflicts and Food Security in Narok County, Kenya

Abstract

This research investigates the relationship between cross-border conflicts and food security in Narok County, Kenya, with a specific objective of understanding the nature of cross-border conflict and its impact and evaluating mitigation actions for food security. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 160 participants, including residents and administrative officers, through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The study identifies three primary conflict drivers: land disputes, resource competition, and cultural tensions, which collectively disrupt food systems. These conflicts significantly impact food availability, access, and quality, further destabilising local food markets and increasing the vulnerability of the county’s population to food insecurity. The research also evaluates the effectiveness of ongoing mitigation efforts, such as the Maasai Livelihood Support Initiative and the Water Harvesting and Irrigation Scheme, in addressing food security challenges in conflict-prone areas. While these programs have shown positive results, the study identifies key challenges to long-term success, including a lack of sustainable solutions, limited community involvement, inconsistent funding, and fragile trust in local authorities. The findings emphasise the need for an integrated approach to conflict resolution and food security. Recommendations include addressing the root causes of conflicts through legal reforms and land management policies, improving food production and market access infrastructure, and increasing community participation in program design and implementation. Additionally, enhancing communication and transparency between authorities and local populations is crucial for fostering trust and ensuring the sustainability of interventions. The study advocates for a community-driven, holistic approach to developing resilient food systems that can withstand the pressures of cross-border conflicts.