Abstract:
Conflict is an inherent feature in human society,
however with its escalation it becomes a threat to peace and
stability of not only a society, a nation, a state but also an entire
region. This paper seeks to examine the reasons why non-
governmental organizations are taking a central role in conflict
transformation in the contemporary society, the nature of conflicts
and finally the challenges it faces. This paper adopted descriptive
approach using an interview schedule drawing its respondents
from NGOs, government officials and victims of conflicts in
Uasin-Gishu County, rift-valley region of Kenya which has
experienced conflicts overtime. The research found that; NGO’s
role is significant because it seeks to find the root cause of conflict,
the nature of conflicts range from politically triggered, inter-clan
to ethnic conflict, the NGOs challenges are; inadequate financial
resources, non-committal by warring parties to conflict resolution,
the state and finally the complexity and longevity of protracted
conflicts. The research finally concludes that for the effectiveness
of the role of NGOs in conflict resolution the Kenya’s to a greater
extent depends on the good will of the government should take the
leading role by providing conducive environment for other
stakeholders to address the root cause of conflict for posterity.
