Influence of Youth Inclusivity on Peace Building in Mount Elgon Constituency, Bungoma County, Kenya

Abstract

The considerable emphasis given on youth participation in peacebuilding as a catalyst for peace, security and development in the world, especially in fragile communities seem to be taking the centre stage as far as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are concerned. States are being encouraged to document on youth contribution to peace building rather than focusing on their participation in conflict and violence only. This study analyzed how youth inclusivity relates with peace building in Mt. Elgon Constituency, Bungoma County, Kenya. Transformational Leadership Theory of MacGregor James Burns was adopted. Descripto-explanatory research design was used for this study. The study population comprised of 87 community members including local administration, NGO staffs, opinion leaders, religious leaders, ex-combatants and youth. Purposive, convenience and snowball techniques were used to obtain the participants for the study given the state of fragility in the area. Multiple regression and Thematic Analysis were used to analyze the data generated by semi-structured questionnaires, Focus Group Discussions and Key Informant Interviews. The validity and reliability of the instruments were enhanced through pilot study. Validity was done by experts and stakeholders in the field of peace building. The findings show that there is a significant positive relationship between youth inclusivity and peace building. Based on the findings, it was recommended that, a mix of inclusion modalities be established to ensure quantitative and qualitative representations of all youths in development initiatives at all levels.