Majority follow elders' directives, study shows

Majority of Marsabit residents follow elders or traditional leaders’ decisions, new research conducted last year indicates.

The study revealed that impact of traditional leaders on local residents was 90 per cent while only ten per cent of residents opposed what leaders decide.

The research was carried out in the county last September by South Link Constants Limited.

While announcing results to Moyale residents at St Paul Hall on Monday during the launch of building responsive institutions through conflict sensitive approach initiative, Pastoralist Integrated Support Programme (PISP) CEO Katelo Ibrae said majority of respondents observed traditional leaders have a say in the mediation processes.

“According to research those disagreeing cited lack of honesty and accountability among the leaders,” Mr Ibrae said.

Unite people

On types of impact of traditional leaders the research shows that 12 per cent of leaders enhance peace, 42 unite people, 27 reduce conflict incidents while 19 per cent of respondents were placed under others.

However, respondents said lack of resources, illiteracy, dishonesty and poor co-ordination are some of the challenges facing traditional leaders.

In the study, 45 per cent of leaders lack resources, 28 per cent faced illiteracy, 17 per cent were poorly coordinated while ten per cent face dishonesty.

“Under the parties at conflict, Rendile was placed at 19 per cent, Borana (23), Gabra (24), Samburu and Turkana  (12), Burji (6) while political leaders were rated at four per cent,” said PISP head.

“Politicians were cited by the highest with 43 per cent of respondents as spoilers of peace processes while clans or tribe rated at 31 per cent of respondents. “

Area deputy county commissioner John Cheruiyot, chiefs, county government officials and various community elders attended the launch.