Assessing The Problem-Solving Capacity Of Village Chairpersons in Preventing Farmer- Pastoralist Conflicts in Nachingwea District

Abstract

The study assessed the problem-solving capacity of village chairpersons in preventing farmer-pastoralist conflicts in Nachingwea District. The study was guided by the Contact Theory and Transformational Leadership Theory with three specific research objectives which were to examine the problem-solving capacity of village chairpersons in preventing farmer-pastoralist conflicts, to determine the impacts of problem-solving capacity among village chairpersons in preventing farmer-pastoralist conflicts, and to identify gaps in problem-solving capacity among village chairpersons in preventing farmer-pastoralist conflicts. The study employed interpretivism research philosophy, qualitative research approach, and a descriptive research design. The target population was 17,604 individuals. The study involved 17 research participants obtained through a purposive sampling technique. Data was collected by using interview guides. Validity and reliability of data collection instruments was ensured by IAA experts. Data was analyzed through the thematic analysis technique. Ethical practices included confidentiality, consent form, and data collection permit. Findings revealed infrequent organization of conflict resolution meetings, high awareness of key conflict triggers between farmers and pastoralists, inadequate mediation skills among village chairpersons and persistent security concerns within the community despite efforts by village chairpersons. To mitigate the problem, the study underscores the personalized training programs to enhance conflict resolution skills among village chairpersons to enhance impartiality, mediation capacity and active engagement of both farmers and pastoralists in the prevention of farmer-pastoralist conflicts