Peacebuilding and Governance for Sustainable Development

Peacebuilding and governance are fundamental pillars for creating stable, inclusive, and prosperous societies. Peacebuilding involves proactive efforts to prevent conflict, address its root causes, and support the rebuilding of communities in post-conflict situations. It focuses on promoting dialogue, reconciliation, justice, and social cohesion. Through these efforts, communities are empowered to overcome division and heal from the scars of conflict.

Governance, on the other hand, refers to the processes and institutions through which societies manage public affairs and resources. Good governance is characterized by transparency, accountability, rule of law, participation, and responsiveness to citizens’ needs. It fosters a climate where citizens can trust their leaders, feel protected by the law, and be assured of equitable opportunities. Effective governance ensures the sustainability of peacebuilding efforts by fostering strong, inclusive institutions that serve the needs of all citizens.

When peacebuilding and governance align, they create environments where communities can heal from past traumas, resolve differences peacefully, and collaborate toward shared goals. Strengthening these two areas is essential for long-term stability, resilience, and the achievement of inclusive growth and social justice. Without them, the cycle of violence and instability can persist, hindering progress and prosperity.

Addressing Conflict in Northern Kenya and Borderlands

Conflict remains one of the most pressing issues affecting populations in northern Kenya, particularly along its international borderlines with Uganda, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. Rooted in resource-based tensions, this conflict is often fueled by environmental degradation, depletion of water and land resources, and reduced livelihoods and food security for local populations. As the environment becomes less forgiving, competition for dwindling resources intensifies, exacerbating tensions between communities.

In Turkana County, the situation is particularly complex. The county borders seven distinct ethnic groups from Kenya and neighboring countries. These groups include the Pokot (from Kenya and Uganda), Karamojong (from Uganda), and Toposa (from South Sudan). Additionally, on the Ethiopian side, Turkana is bordered by the Dasanach and Nyangatom tribes. These groups have historically been engaged in territorial disputes and competition for resources. This often leads to violent clashes, undermining community cohesion and impeding development efforts.

APaD (Agency for Cross Border Pastoralist Development) plays a critical role in peacebuilding within the Turkana region. Through its cross-border interventions, APaD works directly with communities to foster dialogue, build trust, and promote conflict resolution strategies. The organization engages local leaders, government officials, and community members from all involved tribes to develop shared peacebuilding frameworks. By facilitating peace dialogues, resource-sharing agreements, and joint development projects, APaD helps to reduce tensions, promote social cohesion, and encourage collaboration among the various ethnic groups.

APaD’s efforts are integral to improving community relations and ensuring sustainable peace in an area where resources are scarce, and competition often leads to violence. Their work is not only essential for conflict mitigation but also for empowering communities to jointly address the challenges they face, paving the way for long-term peace and development.

APaD’s Current Projects

APaD continues to implement key projects that strengthen peacebuilding and governance across the borderlands of Kenya, South Sudan, and Uganda. Some of the current projects include:

1. Strengthening Locally-Led Solutions to Intersecting Peace, Gender, and Climate Challenges in the Borderlands of Kenya, South Sudan, and Uganda
   This project focuses on addressing the interconnected challenges of peace, gender, and climate change. It aims to empower local communities with the tools to adapt to climate challenges while enhancing peace and gender equality in the borderlands.
   Project Areas:

   • Kenya: Turkana and Pokot

   • South Sudan: Budi, Kapoeta East, Ikotos, and Kapoeta South

   • Uganda: Moroto, Kaabong, and Amudat in the Karamoja region.

2. Strengthening Integrated Peace, Resilience, and Disaster Risk Reduction for Cross-Border Communities in The Karamoja Cluster (SPREAD)
   This project works to build peace, resilience, and disaster preparedness among cross-border communities in the Karamoja Cluster. By integrating peacebuilding with disaster risk reduction efforts, it aims to create sustainable solutions for the region’s most vulnerable populations.
   Project Areas:

   • Kenya: Turkana

   • South Sudan: Eastern Equatoria

   • Ethiopia: South Omo.

3. Connecting Cross-Border Communities for Sustainable Peace in the Karamoja Region (2024-2025)
   This initiative focuses on strengthening connections and cooperation between cross-border communities in the Karamoja region to foster sustainable peace. The project aims to reduce conflict and enhance collaboration across borders to improve local governance and resource-sharing mechanisms.
   Project Area:

   • Kenya: Loima Sub-County and Lokiriama and its environs within the corridor.