The genesis of land-based violence in Mt. Elgon from the precolonial period to the postcolonial period

Abstract

This study traces the genesis of land-based conflicts in Mt. Elgon from the precolonial period to the postcolonial period. This research was conducted in Mount Elgon Sub County in Kapsokwony, Kaptama, Kopsiro, and Cheptais. This research utilised primary as well as secondary sources of data. Secondary data was procured from Kenyatta University Library, among other libraries. Primary data was collected from the Kenya National Archives as well as from oral sources through interviewing the identified respondents in the field. Data instruments that were used include questionnaires and question guides. The procedures employed in collecting primary data included in-depth interviews and Focus Group Discussions. The primary oral data was analysed by first translating oral interviews from the Sabaot language to English, grouping data according to the objectives, and verifying any possible contradicting information. After that, the data was coroborated with archival and secondary data and then presented through descriptive narratives. The families in the Mount Elgon area faced several difficulties, which called for the government to handle the issues, which undermined the significance of peace in the region. This study concludes that the land issue and the emergence of the Sabaot Land Defense Force in Mount Elgon, Bungoma, dates back to the pre-colonial and post-colonial periods and the post-colonial Government's inefficiency. The colonial Government's land ordinances, laws, and concessions played a significant part in the challenges facing the land issues in Kenya.