Analysis of resource use conflicts between the pastoralists and other stakeholders in Simanjiro
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Date
2007
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Publisher
Sokoine University of Agriculture
Abstract
Conflicts over natural resources seem to be increasing in our modem world. These conflicts ensue when the supply of natural resource base falls short of the prevailing demand. This study attempted to analyse the resource-use conflicts between pastoralists and farmers in Simanjiro District. Specifically it aimed at identifying the nature and causes of conflicts, assess effects of conflicts, determine steps taken to resolve conflicts and finally identify role of governance in arresting these conflicts with regard to corruption, transparency and participation. Both primary and secondary data were collected. A Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyse the data. Descriptive statistics such as mean cross tabulation and simple statistical trends were used to present the results, while econometric analysis such as logistic regression and cluster analysis were used to confirm the results. The study results indicated that nature and cause of resource use conflicts revolved around different livelihood groups. The nature of conflict which significantly (p< 0.05) existed in the study area were: farmers’ disputes over farm plots, herders’ conflicts over water use, and farmers’ and herders’ conflicts over land use were major causes of conflict in the study area. The major effect ofland and water use conflicts is poor social relationship and mutual understanding among different stakeholders’. Steps undertaken in resolving conflicts depend on the nature and magnitude ofthe conflicts, with both fanners and pastoralists preferring interpersonal agreements in conflict resolution and detesting the police and/or court cases. The study also established a low level of participation on land matters by community members caused by corruption and lack of
transparency by leadership. The study recommends introduction of land policies that recognise and safeguard the interest and cater for the needs ofpastoralists coupled by land use education, investigation of corruption and emphasise personal conflict intervention as a sustainable measure to combat resource use conflicts in the study area.
Description
Dissertation
Keywords
Conflicts, Pastoralists, Stakeholders, Natural resources