Evaluating the Contemporary Vernacular Broadcast Media Intervention in Communities Prone to Intra-Ethnic Conflict in Kenya: A Case of the Abakuria

Abstract

The media can be used as an instrument to build as well as to destroy order, harmony and social coexistence in the human society. This study has tried to establish the inherent nature of social conflict and crises in human society as well as the significant role of the media and communication in forming and shaping individual or group perception of events or issues, as well as enhancing human interaction. It also perspectivizes the nature of violence and turmoil to the wellbeing of humanity. Vital roles of the media and the various conflict management apparatus like arbitration, collaboration, mediation, negotiation and reconciliation among other measures put in place to avert or control the recurrent violent conflict among the Abakuria community have also been highlighted.

Keywords: intra-ethnic conflict, conflict resolution, vernacular broadcast media, Abakuria