Drivers and Consequences of Recurrent Conflicts between Farmers and Pastoralists in Kilosa and Mvomero Districts, Tanzania

Abstract

Recurrent conflicts between farmers and pastoralists have brought significant impacts on both groups. In response to this situation, the government and other actors have taken several measures to mitigate such conflicts with little success. This paper examined drivers and consequences of recurrent conflicts between farmers and pastoralists in Kilosa and Mvomero districts. Covering a sample size of 203 respondents, data was collected using interview, documentary review, and focus group discussions. Collected data was analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative analysis. The findings revealed that weak governance structures associated with unethical behavior, regulatory deficiencies, socio-economic and environmental factors are responsible for the recurrence of conflicts between farmers and pastoralists. Consequently, the recurrent conflicts have resulted into major socio-economic impact that includes loss of lives and properties to both farmers and pastoralists. Drawing from conflict and conflict resolution theories, which advocates use of coercive power and participatory approaches to restore peace, respectively; this paper conclude that no single strategy fits all conflicts given the complexity in which such conflicts occurs. In the light of the results this paper recommends that the effective way to address farmers-pastoralists conflicts; actors should use both lenses of coercive and participatory approaches and the choice of appropriate strategy will depends on the context since no single approach fits all types of conflicts...