FARMERS-HERDERS CONFLICTS AND THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN PEACE BUILDING PROCESSES IN MALUMFASHI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KATSINA STATE

ABSTRACT This study investigates the role of women in peace building processes amid farmer-herder conflicts in Malumfashi Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina State, Nigeria. With increasing conflicts posing significant challenges to food security, economic development, and social stability, the research emphasizes the unique position of women, who, despite facing vulnerabilities, play critical roles as peace builders. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. The first chapter establishes the context of the conflicts, articulates the research problem, objectives, and significance, setting the foundation for exploring women's contributions to conflict resolution. The second chapter provides a comprehensive literature review on the complexities of farmer-herder conflicts, including underlying causes such as resource scarcity and socio-political dynamics, while also discussing the gendered nature of these conflicts and the specific challenges women encounter in peace building. Chapter Three details the research methodology, outlining the mixed-methods design used to capture both quantitative data from structured questionnaires and qualitative insights from in-depth interviews. This methodological framework ensures a robust understanding of women's roles in peace building. Chapter Four presents and analyses data collected from 345 respondents and five key informants. Findings reveal that 83.2% of women actively participate in peace building activities, with predominant roles in mediation and conflict resolution. However, the research identifies significant challenges, including cultural barriers (80.6%) and lack of recognition (71.0%). The effectiveness of women's initiatives is acknowledged by 86.4% of participants, highlighting their impact on conflict reduction. The final chapter synthesizes these findings, concluding that women are essential actors in peace building processes, yet their potential is constrained by cultural and structural barriers. Recommendations for enhancing women's participation include capacity building programs, community recognition, and policy advocacy. By implementing these strategies, stakeholders can create an enabling environment for women, contributing to more sustainable conflict resolution in Malumfashi and similar contexts. This study enriches the broader discourse on gender and peace building, providing valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers dedicated to addressing conflict dynamics in Nigeria.