Conflict Resolution Methods And The Tanzania-Malawi Border Dispute

ABSTRACT

This study mainly focused on assessing the viability of conflict resolution methods, particularly mediation method, in the Tanzania-Malawi border dispute. The study was conducted in Kyela district in Mbeya region of Tanzania and it followed a cross-sectional research design.

A total number of 100 respondents were involved in the study whereby methods such as fieldwork survey, interviews, focused group discussions and documentary review were employed during data collection. The analysis of the collected data was done by using the SPSS computer program basing on the research objectives thus leading to genuine presentation, interpretation, conclusions and recommendations.

Generally, on the basis of the findings obtained, this study argues that mediation method is still viable in the resolution of the Tanzania-Malawi borders dispute. However, in order to achieve the desired success, the study provides the following recommendations to be incorporated in the mediation processes: The study recommends that there should be increased forbearance of the disputing parties. Also it proposes that there should be an involvement of the local chiefs and sub-chiefs of the communities residing at both sides of the border. Likewise the study suggests that Religious intervention and International community involvement should be employed in the efforts to resolve this conflict. In addition, the study recommends that more time should be given to the current mediation processes in order to exhaustively settle the seemingly complex issues related to the matter. Eventually, and then if need be, the matter should to be referred to ICJ for ultimate verdict.