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.
