Kenya has experienced different types of conflicts that range from internal disputes between and within different groups, to cross-border confrontations with groups from neighbouring countries. These conflicts, which manifest themselves either violent or non-violently, are exacerbated by the spill-over effects from the wider conflicts in the great Lakes Region and the horn of Africa. They are caused by various complex and interrelated factors that include poor governance, poverty, competition for scarce resources and identity-based rivalries. the violent conflicts are further complicated by the preference of small arms and light weapons (SALW).the effects of proliferation of illicit SALW are felt in gun-related crimes particularly in centers and in pastoral areas.
Conflicts have caused extensive damage to life and property, and adversely impacted on economic development in Kenya . their political, economical, social and cultural costs include the lowering of economic productivity, weakening of political institutions, incapacity to provide essential services, destruction and depletion if natural resources, increased food insecurity and capital flight. Violent conflict often leads to displacement of population either as refuges, internally displaced persons or besieged populations. If not addressed, the problem of IDPS, landlessness and squatters will continue to be a major treat to peace and security in Kenya . Beyond the material impact, violent conflicts have psychological, physical and emotional repercussions and affects mainly experienced by individuals and groups, and the consequences lack of trust in the existing institutional forms of governance.
