Examining community-based initiatives in conflict resolution: a case study of Canaansite Estate, Wakiso District

Abstract

The study aimed to examine the effectiveness of community-based initiatives in conflict resolution within Canaanites Estate, Manyangwa in Wakiso District. Three specific objectives guided it: to identify the major causes of conflicts among residents, to assess the community-based initiatives employed in resolving disputes and their effect on peaceful co-existence, and to propose a comprehensive framework for effective community-based conflict resolution. A descriptive, cross-sectional, mixed-methods design was employed, using both questionnaires and an interview guide. Out of the targeted 234 respondents, 197 participated, giving a satisfactory response rate of 84.2%. The findings revealed that the leading causes of conflict included disputes over land ownership (mean = 4.21), lack of transparency in land allocation (mean = 4.13), youth unemployment fueling criminal behavior (mean = 4.08), frequent landlord–tenant misunderstandings (mean = 4.04), and unclear leadership structures (mean = 4.01). Other notable drivers were inadequate infrastructure and climate-related pressures. Community-based initiatives were reported to be effective, with over 80% of respondents agreeing that they enhanced peaceful dispute resolution, reduced reliance on external courts, strengthened trust in leadership, and improved security outcomes in the estate. Regression analysis confirmed the statistical significance of these initiatives, with the model explaining 32.7% of the variance in conflict-resolution outcomes (R² = 0.327; F (7,189) = 5.987; p < 0.001). Local leaders’ mediation (β = 0.198, p = 0.006), religious leaders’ involvement (β = 0.176, p = 0.011), cultural rituals (β = 0.165, p = 0.014), and elders’ wisdom (β = 0.148, p = 0.026) emerged as the strongest predictors of success. While community meetings, police–local council collaboration, and women’s associations contributed positively, their effects were not statistically significant. These results underscore that trusted leadership and culturally grounded practices are the most influential mechanisms in promoting lasting peace in the estate. Based on the findings of the study, a four-component framework was proposed, consisting of prevention (community sensitization, land documentation, and early warning systems), intervention (timely mediation by local leaders, elders, and faith-based actors), resolution (transparent dialogue platforms and fair agreements), and sustainability (capacity-building, recordkeeping, and inclusive participation of women and youth). The study therefore recommends formalizing mediation processes, empowering community leaders with negotiation skills, institutionalizing resident bylaws, and promoting stronger collaboration among residents, local councils, and security agencies.