Conflict Resolution Mechanisms and the Traits of Effective Mediation in Africa

Abstract

Conflict is endemic in African states in particular and the international system in general. All conflicts are eventually resolved by Conflict Resolution Mechanisms (CRM). Prominently there are six CRM techniques and these are: Negotiation, Mediation, Facilitation, Arbitration, Adjudication and Conciliation. Negotiation and mediation are the most popular CRM while conciliation serves the dual purpose of being a means as well as an end in the CRM process. At the individual level African statesmen such as Olusegun Obasanjo, Julius Nyerere, Nelson Mandela, Daniel arap Moi, Samora Machel etc. have contributed enormously towards the restoration of peace in Africa through CRM. The objective of study is guided by the following research questions viz: What is the meaning and types of conflict resolution mechanisms? Why is conciliation the orbit on which all conflict resolution mechanisms revolve? What are the traits of effective mediation in conflicts ravaging African States? The Complex Interdependence Theory as propounded by Robert Keohane and Joseph Nye is the theoretical framework of the study. The qualitative research methodology was adopted for the study. It consists of content and documentary analysis whereby data was gathered mainly through secondary sources and reviewed. The study found out that forceful mediation was the most effective conflict resolution mechanics for conflicts in Africa. The study recommends that mediators should be neutral and sincere in their mediation. In reciprocity warring factions in a conflict should desire peace and respect agreements that have been reached in a negotiation or mediation