Impact of States and Non-State Armed Groups Collaboration on Conflict Management in the Horn of Africa, 1996-2016

Abstract

The article argues that conflicts in the Horn of Africa were fueled and sustained by the non-state armed groups (NSAGs) in collaboration with states within the sub-region. The somewhat symbiotic relationship that existed between states and NSAGs provided synergy that protracted conflicts and made them difficult to manage. While using realism theory, this study analyses why states, which are interest-driven, engaged NSAGs in their respective countries and worked with them to perpetrate conflicts. The study deployed purposive sampling in the selection of respondents and administered questionnaires as well as in-depth interviews to collect data. Additionally, the inquiry relied on secondary data where content analysis was carried out. The study found that Sudan conflict protracted because Uganda supported the Sudan People’s Liberation movement/Army; Somalia conflict prolonged due to the involvement of Ethiopia, Kenya and Eritrea; and the South Sudan dispute was sustained because of the meddling of Uganda and Ethiopia. Keywords: collaboration, states, Horn of Africa, non-state armed groups DOI: 10.7176/IAGS/97-03 Publication date: October 31 st 2022