The Role of the Catholic Church in Ethnic Conflict Resolution among the Residents of Kipchimchim Parish in Kenya

Abstract

The Catholic Church plays a vital role in conflict resolution across the globe. Most of the conflicts in Kenya happen during the election period, and the church intervenes to reduce the tensions among individuals and ethnic communities. The main aim of this study was to establish the role of the Catholic Church in conflict resolution among the residents of Kipchimchim in Kenya. The study employed a cross-sectional design. The sample size was 200 respondents derived from a target population of 2106 individuals. The primary data was collected using questionnaires, interviews, and observations. The study found out that the church plays a vital role in restoring peace and forgiveness among warring groups; families, institutions, and communities through mediation and conciliation. However, she had not done enough. The church had failed to effectively address the key issues which had caused perennial ethnic conflict. The church was expected to be at the forefront in addressing historical land injustices, electoral reforms, inclusivity, and equitable sharing of national resources, which are the leading cause of ethnic conflict. The study recommended that the church work with policymakers, including the government, to find solutions to the country's recurring cases of ethnic conflict. There was a need to address issues relating to electoral reforms, historical land injustices, equitable distribution of resources, inclusivity, and protection of human rights as a matter of priority for lasting peace, unity, and stability among Kenyan communities.