An Intersectional Approach to Gender-Inclusive Peacebuilding in Northern Kenya

For decades, Northern Kenya has faced complex security challenges, including cyclical intra and inter-community conflicts, violence, cattle raiding, resource scarcity, and criminality that transcends boundaries and borders. The escalations have often been met with heavy-handed security responses further corroding trust and rooting insecurity into the region.

While entire communities have been affected by the conflict dynamics, cultural norms that exclude women from decision-making, particularly on peace and security issues, have created unique vulnerabilities for women and girls. Cyclical escalations and the lack of women's engagement has also manifested in periods of intensified gender-based violence (GBV).

The “An Intersectional Approach to Gender-Inclusive Peacebuilding in Northern Kenya: Marsabit, Samburu and Isiolo Counties” report presents the findings from an analysis of gendered conflict and resilience dynamics in Northern Kenya. Based on Participatory Action Research, the report builds on Interpeace’s flagship report, 10 Foundations of Gender-inclusive Peacebuilding Practice. The research was conducted through 15 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and 15 Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with 180 participants representing diverse ages, genders, ethnicities, and (dis)abilities.