Climate Change, Human Mobility and Conflicts: The Role of Local Knowledge for Policy-Making. A case study in Moyale-Moyale

The Moyale-Moyale Borderlands, situated between northern Kenya and southern Ethiopia, represent a unique confluence of challenges associated with climate change, human mobility, and conflict dynamics. Pastoralist communities in this region face multifaceted hurdles, including resource-based conflicts, exacerbated by climate-induced stressors and shifting mobility patterns. This study investigates the intricate nexus between climate change, conflicts, and human mobility in the Moyale-Moyale Borderlands and in most cross-border pastoral areas in the region.

Drawing upon local expertise and meaningful direct engagement with local communities and governmental bodies, the study, made in collaboration with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), delves into various dimensions of the complex nexus. It explores the evolution of conflicts, from traditional practices like cattle rustling to contemporary dynamics. Moreover, the research investigates policies and practices aimed at mitigating conflicts amidst climate change and human mobility challenges. It assesses the roles of indigenous knowledge and traditional conflict resolution. Furthermore, gender dynamics within this nexus are also explored.

The study also scrutinizes land use policies and their implications on human mobility, particularly in the context of climate-induced environmental changes. By identifying existing gaps in knowledge, the research aims to contribute to informed decision-making processes and the formulation of targeted interventions. Overall, the findings underscore the imperative of integrating conflict management strategies into climate change adaptation efforts.