Natural resources and conflict management: the case of land

Abstract

The main objective of the paper is to provide a presentation of the diversity of land related conflicts in Eastern Africa, an analysis of underlying causes of conflicts and experiences in conflict resolution and, lessons learnt and best practices from the policy and legal responses and links with enhancement of land governance in the region. Land policies should not be considered in isolation but should be seen as a pre-requisite for economic growth, sustainable human development and peace and security. African countries in general and those in Eastern Africa in particular, need to develop holistic, comprehensive and practicable land policies at national level. Such land policies should be based on clear understanding of critical issues and challenges which must be tackled. The policies need to be developed and implemented on the basis of an inclusive and participatory platform.