Assessment of the trends and presence of Water Related Conflicts in the Upper Ewaso Nyiro North River Basin: A Case for Laikipia County

The main objective of the study was to assess how water resources are accessed, used and managed by diverse users pursuing different socio-economic activities amicably. The Theory of Access, Game Theory, and Tragedy of Commons informed the study. Data was collected using primary and secondary sources. Primary data collection tools were structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, focus group discussions and transect walks. Descriptive statistics were used for quantitative data analysis (SPSS version) and summative content analysis was applied for qualitative data analysis. The study findings showed that both upstream households and downstream households agreed that there were water related conflicts in the Upper Ewaso Nyiro River Basin. The study finally concluded that ensuring equal access to water resources among various water users in the Upper Ewaso Nyiro would go a long way ensuring reduced water related conflicts among various water users. There is a need for respect for law and order as set up by water management to promote equity, pro-environmental practices and land use appreciation of conservation agriculture. Anthropogenic causes of water scarcity and the related conflicts can be addressed so as to prevent future conflicts resulting to loss of lives and property among water users members. These disagreements can be addressed by developing an effective communication mechanism to ensure that all the parties share the same data and information regarding the water resource. Keywords: Water Resources, Upper Ewaso Nyiro, Water Users, Conflicts