This case study will analyze the nature of cross-border conflicts and deterrence measures in the Horn of Africa with a focus on the pastoral communities of Pokot, Turkana, and the Karamojong. These communities in northwestern Kenya and eastern Uganda are under intolerable stress and they are involved in a violent struggle to survive. While insecurity in this area is often characterized as arising from competition over scarce resources, there are broader dimensions to local conflicts. These revolve around a long history of social, cultural, economic and political exclusion. The states' role in the provision of security and support to pastoral communities is, on the whole, poor. Both countries have a tendency to sometimes use excessive military force. Pastoral communities have reasons to feel alienated. Lack of political will and corruption likewise frustrates efforts to keep the peace. This study seeks to examine the interplay among raids and counter-raids, internal security, the rule of law, and democratic governance. It proposes a number of steps for achieving greater stability in the region.
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