The Effectiveness of Faith-Based Organisations in Conflict Transformation in Kenya: A Case of Isiolo Interfaith Network

Abstract

The study investigated the effectiveness of faith-based organisations in conflict transformation , using a case study of the Isiolo Interfaith Network (IIN). Three objectives guided the study: To evaluate the influence of IIN's conflict transformation programs on reducing inter-community conflicts in Isiolo County, Kenya; To examine the impact of religious values and principles in shaping the conflict transformation activities and interventions of IIN and to explore the sustainability of FBO-led peace initiatives in the long-term conflict transformation process in Isiolo County, Kenya. John Paul Lederach's theory of conflict transformation was the basis for the study. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating quantitative and qualitative data. A structured questionnaire was administered to community members, yielding 119 usable responses (response rate 85 percent). Descriptive statistics and inferential analyses, including chi-square tests and multiple regression, were conducted to examine determinants of perceived effectiveness. Complementary qualitative data were collected through five key informant interviews (KIIs) and three focus group discussions (FGDs), and were analyzed thematically to contextualize and expand on survey results. Findings revealed that IIN is widely perceived as effective in reducing inter-communal tensions and fostering peaceful coexistence, with 69–82 per cent of respondents reporting positive influence. Trust in faith leaders and the promotion of religious values such as tolerance, forgiveness, and love emerged as central to IIN’s credibility and impact. However, the study found limited evidence that IIN addresses the structural root causes of conflict, such as resource competition and youth unemployment. Sustainability also emerged as a challenge. While community involvement and inter-institutional collaboration are strong, only half of the respondents agreed that IIN has built enduring local capacity, with heavy reliance on donor funding, and a few key leaders identified vulnerabilities. The study concluded that faith-based organisations can play a crucial role in rapid response, trust-building, and short-term conflict de-escalation. To enhance long-term impact, it recommends strengthening local capacity, diversifying funding, and embedding interfaith initiatives into county-level governance and conflict prevention frameworks.