In the Horn of Africa, State Institutions Must Work in Harmony With Communities for Peace

The Horn of Africa continues to face complex challenges driven by climate change, competition over natural resources, intra- and inter-conflicts, political instability, insecurity, and marginalization across borders. Many stories are not told about what happens in the borderlands when conflicts emerge. Geographical maps may divide countries, but communities are not divided because they have relatives on both sides of the border who speak the same language. In cross-border markets, communities are fond of saying their livestock do not recognise national boundaries as they move freely in search of pasture and water. However, climate shocks and other factors have contributed to conflicts over grazing land and livestock theft, particularly during drought periods. When conflicts arise, the cross-border elders come together for peace dialogues and mediation between the affected communities. The elders encourage reconciliation, while the women encourage youth to calm their emotions to prevent retaliation.