The targeted regions Somalia and Kenya particularly ASAL counties have experienced varied types of conflicts that have affected the populations differently. Although there are similarities between this types of conflicts, which are mainly clan conflict, resource based conflict and political contestation, it has been much contained in the ASAL counties of Kenya because of the effective governance system in place whereas in Somalia, the veracity of this conflict has been long drawn stretching since the collapse of the state in 1991. The impact of the conflict has affected the social fabric and undermined the existing
peace building institutions and mechanisms causing recurrent conflicts that often led to devastations. The continued conflicts have caused displacements and loss of livelihoods. Many international efforts have been undertaken to restore peace and stability in the past three decades. Although many were unsuccessful particularly in Somalia, there have been promising achievements that eventually led to formation of federal state governments and strengthening of social institutions to enforce dispute resolution mechanisms. International partners have initiated mechanisms to strengthen community peace building initiatives however, IDI believes there is need for sustained efforts to bring together community actors to resolve their difference and forge mutual understanding and ensure the enforcement of community peace accords to prevent renewed conflict. Therefore, IDI will establish connectors with objective to forge lasting peace.
Political competition among community groups have been rife in a bid to get hold of power and accumulate resources creating fear among the communities for revenge attacks. In such context women, youth and traditionally excluded communities have often been sidelined and left out in the political participation and governance process. IDI will work with government and development actors to establish platforms that will promote the political inclusivity by bridging the existing gaps and forge
engagement with dominant groups as well as support their voices to be included in the governance process.
