Abstract:
Globally, the practice of pastoralism as a source of livelihood has been in existence over centuries
among different communities. The evolution of sedentary agriculture and other economic activities
however, minimally changed nomadic pastoralism in many continents. Given the migratory nature
of pastoralists in search of water and pasture, a number of challenges are encountered along the
way. The rising human population, competing land uses, land tenure systems, and diminishing
environmental resources resulting from climate change have all contributed to numerous conflicts
between and among pastoralist communities. This article therefore uses secondary data to analyze
some of the strategies of conflict resolution among pastoralist communities, highlighting success
stories while suggesting how they can be replicated to address conflict. Two objectives guided this
analysis. Firstly, was the evaluation of the impact of conflict resolution strategies on pastoralism
and secondly was the assessment of some of the challenges associated with the implementation of
the strategies among pastoralist communities. The article concludes that pastoralism remains a
major livelihood source for a majority of populations in arid and semi-arid areas in Africa and Asia
and in mountainous areas in Europe. Further, pastoralist conflicts are a consequence of shared
natural resources without structured forms of utilization. Finally, some approaches/agreements of
conflict resolution adopted by pastoralist communities have recorded some degree of success in
ending conflicts between pastoralist communities. The article recommends that pastoralist
communities adopt, implement and respect working conflict resolution strategies for sustainable
utilization of natural resources to improve their socio-economic welfare. The article recommends
that the government should formulate policies that support pastoralism in line with the 2010
African Union’s policy on pastoralism. In addition, the government and Non-governmental
organizations should support and strengthen successful community conflict resolution strategies.
Successful strategies should also be replicated among pastoral communities sharing similar cultural
institutions.
