Connect with us

News & Analysis

Peacebuilding for Sustainable Development in Africa

Published

on

By Hon. Prof. Kariuki Muigua, OGW, PhD, C.Arb, FCIArb is a Professor of Environmental Law and Dispute Resolution at the University of Nairobi, Member of Permanent Court of Arbitration, Leading Environmental Law Scholar, Respected Sustainable Development Policy Advisor, Top Natural Resources Lawyer, Highly-Regarded Dispute Resolution Expert and Awardee of the Order of Grand Warrior (OGW) of Kenya by H.E. the President of Republic of Kenya. He is the Academic Champion of ADR 2024, the African ADR Practitioner of the Year 2022, the African Arbitrator of the Year 2022, ADR Practitioner of the Year in Kenya 2021, CIArb (Kenya) Lifetime Achievement Award 2021 and ADR Publisher of the Year 2021 and Author of the Kenya’s First ESG Book: Embracing Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) tenets for Sustainable Development” (Glenwood, Nairobi, July 2023) and Kenya’s First Two Climate Change Law Book: Combating Climate Change for Sustainability (Glenwood, Nairobi, October 2023), Achieving Climate Justice for Development (Glenwood, Nairobi, October 2023) and Promoting Rule of Law for Sustainable Development (Glenwood, Nairobi, January 2024)*

The United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDGs) provides in its Preamble that ‘the State Parties were “determined to foster peaceful, just and inclusive societies which are free from fear and violence” as “there can be no sustainable development without peace and no peace without sustainable development”. Some scholars have argued that ‘comparative studies show that development and peacebuilding must be integrated (not just linked) at an early stage – for example by including the political context in development policy and practice in conflict-affected fragile states and by addressing the structural causes of conflict’.

Notably, development and more so, sustainable development, is a multifaceted concept that requires to achieve certain milestones in various sectors, such as social, political, environmental and economic spheres. It is for this reason that ‘the heads of state established five fields of critical importance, or the “five Ps” of the 2030 SDG Agenda, which are people, planet, prosperity, peace and partnerships. Reduction in poverty and concrete improvements in basic education, gender equality, and basic health, all underpinned by improved governance and environmental sustainability are seen as important in building sustainably peaceful and inclusive societies.

It has been argued that development and peacebuilding must be integrated (not just linked) at an early stage – for example by including the political context in development policy and practice in conflict-affected fragile states and by addressing the structural causes of conflict. In addition, it has been acknowledged that strengthening state institutions and enhancing their capacity to provide security and development based on principles of good governance are essential for sound conflict management. In the same way, an effective, credible, and accountable security sector can provide a safe and secure environment in which to entrench other programming initiatives, all embedded in a predictable legal environment supported by culturally appropriate rule of law programs.

In Africa, there have been frequent conflicts across the African continent, which are fueled by various factors, including but not limited to natural resources, fight for political control, poverty, negative ethnicity, religion, environmental causes, and external influence, among others. It is also worth noting that some of the frequent ethnic conflicts have been attributed to the former colonial masters where, colonial authorities drew up local and national territorial boundaries in Africa based on a rather simplistic understanding of the nature of ethnic communities, thus forcing into political entity people who lived apart, separating people who lived together undermining the natural process of state creation and nation building. This has arguably been a major source of conflict among communities in some African countries, such as Nigeria.

The African Union observes that ‘in 2013, during the 50th Anniversary of the OAU/AU, African Heads of State and Government made a Solemn Declaration committing to tackle head-on the scourge of violent conflict in Africa and pronounced their firm determination to achieve the noble goal of a conflict-free Africa, thereby making peace a reality for African people, ridding the continent of wars, violent conflicts, human rights violations, humanitarian crises as well as preventing genocide’. African Union’s Agenda 2063, Africa’s blueprint and master plan for transforming Africa into the global powerhouse of the future, seeks to achieve a peaceful and secure Africa. It is noteworthy that the continent will not make any tangible progress in peacebuilding unless individual states commit to work towards achieving sustainable peace in their territories.

Kenya’s Vision 2030 is grounded on three development pillars namely: economic, social and political pillars. The Social Pillar of the Vision 2030 seeks to invest in the people where it has been pointed out that ‘Kenya’s journey towards widespread prosperity also involves the building of a just and cohesive society that enjoys equitable social development in a clean and secure environment’. Notably, the Political pillar of Vision 2030 also envisions “a democratic political system that is issue based , people-centred, result-oriented and accountable to the public” and ‘a country with a democratic system reflecting the aspirations and expectations of its people, in which equality is entrenched, irrespective of one’s race, ethnicity, religion, gender or socio-economic status; a nation that not only respects but also harnesses the diversity of its people’s values, traditions and aspirations for the benefit of all.’

It is worth pointing out the above inspirations are greatly linked to peacebuilding efforts, as also envisaged under United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDGs). SDGs provide that “the new Agenda recognizes the need to build peaceful, just and inclusive societies that provide equal access to justice and that are based on respect for human rights (including the right to development), on effective rule of law and good governance at all levels and on transparent, effective and accountable institutions”. In line with the foregoing, SDG 16 is the substantive goal dedicated to peace and it provides that States should ‘promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels’.

While Kenya’s efforts towards realization of sustainable development Agenda as far as economic development and even some of the social aspirations are concerned are quite commendable, the same cannot be said about the social pillar, and particularly, peacebuilding efforts. For instance, it has been observed that ‘Kenya is a large multi-ethnic country, with over 40 different ethnic groups and many overlapping conflicts which range from high levels of sexual and gender-based violence and of intercommunal violence; low levels of persistent violence; cycles of election-related violence; and increasing numbers of terrorist attacks’. The high levels of violence in Kenya have been attributed to a range of factors including: ethnic intolerance; border conflicts; political party zoning; competition over land and other resources; proliferation of small arms; weak security; and poverty, underdevelopment, and marginalisation.

This is an extract from Kenya’s First ESG Law Book: Embracing Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) tenets for Sustainable Development” (Glenwood, Nairobi, July 2023) by Hon. Prof.  Kariuki Muigua, OGW, PhD, Professor of Environmental Law and Dispute Resolution, Senior Advocate of Kenya, Chartered Arbitrator, Kenya’s ADR Practitioner of the Year 2021 (Nairobi Legal Awards), ADR Lifetime Achievement Award 2021 (CIArb Kenya), African Arbitrator of the Year 2022, Africa ADR Practitioner of the Year 2022, Member of National Environment Tribunal (NET) Emeritus (2017 to 2023) and Member of Permanent Court of Arbitration nominated by Republic of Kenya and Academic Champion of ADR 2024. Prof. Kariuki Muigua is a foremost Environmental Law and Natural Resources Lawyer and Scholar, Sustainable Development Advocate and Conflict Management Expert in Kenya. Prof. Kariuki Muigua teaches Environmental Law and Dispute resolution at the University of Nairobi School of Law, The Center for Advanced Studies in Environmental Law and Policy (CASELAP) and Wangari Maathai Institute for Peace and Environmental Studies. He has published numerous books and articles on Environmental Law, Environmental Justice Conflict Management, Alternative Dispute Resolution and Sustainable Development. Prof. Muigua is also a Chartered Arbitrator, an Accredited Mediator, the Managing Partner of Kariuki Muigua & Co. Advocates and Africa Trustee Emeritus of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators 2019-2022. Prof. Muigua is a 2023 recipient of President of the Republic of Kenya Order of Grand Warrior (OGW) Award for his service to the Nation as a Distinguished Expert, Academic and Scholar in Dispute Resolution and recognized among the top 5 leading lawyers and dispute resolution experts in Band 1 in Kenya by the Chambers Global Guide 2024 and was listed in the Inaugural THE LAWYER AFRICA Litigation Hall of Fame 2023 as one of the Top 50 Most Distinguished Litigation Lawyers in Kenya and the Top Arbitrator in Kenya in 2023.

References

‘Diamonds in Sierra Leone, A Resource Curse?’ available at http://erd.eui.eu/media/wilson.pdf [Accessed on 17/5/2019].

‘Wangari Maathai-an excerpt from the Nobel Peace Prize Winner’s Acceptance Speech,’ Earth Island Journal. Available at http://www.earthisland.org/journal/index.php/eij/article/wangari_maathai_an_excerpt_from _the_nobel_peace_prize_winners_acceptance_sp/ [Accessed on 17/5/2019].

Alao, A., Natural Resource Management and Human Security in Africa, in Abass, A., Protecting Human Security in Africa (ISBN-13: 9780199578986, Oxford University Press, 2010).

Asaduzzaman, Mohammed & Virtanen, Petri, “Governance Theories and Models”, 2016, in A. Farazmand (ed.), Global Encyclopedia of Public Administration, Public Policy, and Governance, DOI 10.1007/978-3-319-31816-5_2612-1.

Ballet, J., et al, ‘Social Capital and Natural Resource Management: A Critical Perspective,’ The Journal of Environment & Development, Vol. 16, No. 4, December 2007, pp. 355-374, p. 367.

Billion, P., Wars of Plunder: Conflicts, Profits and Politics, (New York: Columbia University Press, 2012).

Bollig, M., “Ethnic Conflicts in North-West Kenya: Pokot-Turkana Raiding 1969— 1984.” Zeitschrift Für Ethnologie 115 (1990), pp. 73-90. http://www.jstor.org/stable/25842144. [Accessed on 17/5/2019].

Boyd, D.R., ‘The Effectiveness of Constitutional Environmental Rights,’ Yale UNITAR Workshop, April 26/27, 2013, available at https://environment.yale.edu/content/documents/00003438/Boyd-Effectiveness-ofConstitutional-Environmental-Rights.docx?1389969747 [Accessed on 23/07/2016].

Cosens, B.A., Craig, R.K., Hirsch, S.L., Arnold, C.A.T., Benson, M.H., DeCaro, D.A., Garmestani, A.S., Gosnell, H., Ruhl, J.B. and Schlager, E., “The role of law in adaptive governance,” Ecology and society: a journal of integrative science for resilience and sustainability 22, no. 1 (2017): 1, p.1.

Daly, E. & May, J.R., ‘Comparative environmental constitutionalism,’ Jindal Global Law Review, April 2015, Volume 6, Issue 1, pp 9–30.

Free the Slaves, ‘Congo’s Mining Slaves: Enslavement at South Kivu Mining Sites,’ Investigative Field Report, June 2013. Available at https://www.freetheslaves.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Congos Mining-Slaves-web-130622.pdf [Accessed on 17/5/2019].

Galtung, J., “Violence, peace, and peace research,” Journal of peace research, Vol. 6, no. 3 (1969): 167-191.

Herath, O., “A critical analysis of Positive and Negative Peace,” (2016), p.106. Available at http://repository.kln.ac.lk/bitstream/handle/123456789/12056/journal1%20%281%29.104- 107.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y [Accessed on 16/5/2019].

Homer-Dixon, T.F., “Environmental scarcities and violent conflict: evidence from cases,” International security 19, No. 1 (1994): 5-40 at p. 6.

IDLO, “Sustaining Peace, Building Justice: Discussion Note,” available at https://www.idlo.int/system/files/event-documents/IDLO%20IN%20- %20Sustaining%20Peace-Building%20Justice%20NO%20CONTACTS.PDF [ Accessed on 17/5/2019].

Institute for Economics and Peace, ‘Pillars of Peace: Understanding the key attitudes and institutions that underpin peaceful societies,’ IEP Report 22, p. 5. Available at https://www.files.ethz.ch/isn/169569/Pillars%20of%20Peace%20Report%20IEP.pdf.

International Alert, “What is Peace Building?” Available at https://www.internationalalert.org/what-we-do/what-is-peacebuilding [17/5/2019].

International Alert, “What is Peace Building?” Available at https://www.internationalalert.org/what-we-do/what-is-peacebuilding [17/5/2019].

International Alert, “What is Peace Building?” Available at https://www.internationalalert.org/what-we-do/what-is-peacebuilding [17/5/2019].

IUCN Resolution 3.012 on Governance of natural resources for conservation and sustainable development adopted in Bangkok, Thailand in 2004. Available at https://portals.iucn.org/library/sites/library/files/resrecfiles/WCC_2004_RES_12_EN.pdf [Accessed on 16/5/2019].

IUCN, Environmental Law: Governance and MEAs, available at https://www.iucn.org/theme/environmental-law/our-work/governance-and-meas [Accessed on 16/5/2019].

Johannes, E.M., et al, ‘Oil discovery in Turkana County, Kenya: a source of conflict or development?’ African Geographical Review, Vol. 34, No.2, 2015, pp.142-164, p. 142.

Kinniburgh, C., ‘Beyond “Conflict Minerals”: The Congo’s Resource Curse Lives On,’ Dissent Magazine, Spring 2014, available at https://www.dissentmagazine.org/article/beyond-conflict-minerals-thecongos-resource-curse-lives-on [ Accessed on 12/08/2018].

Lawson, T. R. & Greestein, J., ‘Beating the resource Curse in Africa: A global Effort,’ Africa in Fact, August 2012. Available at http://www.cfr.org/africa-subsaharan/beating-resource-curse-africa-global-effort/p28780 [Accessed on 17/5/2019].

Lohde, L.A., The Art and Science of Benefit Sharing in the Natural Resource Sector, (International Finance Corporation, February 2015), p. 55. Available at https://commdev.org/wpcontent/ uploads/2015/07/IFC-Art-and-Science-of-Benefits-Sharing-Final.pdf.

Maiese, M., ‘Social Structural Change,’ in G. Burgess & H. Burgess (eds), Beyond Intractability, (Conflict Information Consortium, University of Colorado, Boulder, July 2003), available at http://www.beyondintractability.org/essay/social-structural-changes [Accessed on 17/05/2019];

Maphosa, S.B., Natural Resources and Conflict: Unlocking the Economic dimension of peace-building in Africa. ASIA Policy brief Number 74, 2012.

Martin, P., Boer, B. and Slobodian, L., (Eds.), Framework for Assessing and Improving Law for SustainabilityIUCN, Gland, Switzerland, 2016, xii + 126 pp at p. 1. Available at https://www.iucn.org/sites/dev/files/framework_for_assessing_and_improving_law_for_susta inability.pdf [Accessed on 16/5/2019].

Martin, P., Boer, B. and Slobodian, L., (Eds.), Framework for Assessing and Improving Law for Sustainability IUCN, Gland, Switzerland, 2016, at p. 1.

Martin, P., Boer, B. and Slobodian, L., (Eds.), Framework for Assessing and Improving Law for SustainabilityIUCN, Gland, Switzerland, 2016, at p. 3.

Martin, P., Boer, B. and Slobodian, L., (Eds.), Framework for Assessing and Improving Law for SustainabilityIUCN, Gland, Switzerland, 2016, at p.ix.

Moore, P., et al, Natural Resource Governance Trainers’ Manual, (IUCN, RECOFTC, SNV, Bangkok, Thailand, 2011), p. 119.

Muigua, K., Kariuki, F., Wamukoya, D., Natural Resources and Environmental Justice in Kenya, Glenwood Publishers, Nairobi, 2015.

Muigua, K., Kariuki, F., Wamukoya, D., Natural Resources and Environmental Justice in Kenya, Glenwood Publishers, Nairobi, 2015.

Muigua, K., Kariuki, F., Wamukoya, D., Natural Resources and Environmental Justice in Kenya, Glenwood Publishers, Nairobi, 2015. 61 United Nations, The Sustainable Development Goals Report, 2018, p.15. Available at https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/files/report/2018/TheSustainableDevelopmentGoalsReport 2018- EN.pdf [Accessed on 17/5/2019].

Mwenda, A. & Kibutu, T.N., ‘Implications of the New Constitution on Environmental Management in Kenya,’ Law, Environment and Development Journal, Vol. 8, No. 1, 2012, p. 78.

Nafees, A., “The Role of Civil Society Institutions in Environmental Governance in India: Post-colonial Context and Human Rights Challenges in the Environmental Justice,” International Journal of Legal Studies and Research, Special Issue-June 2018, pp. 16-39, at p. 16.

Okidi. C.O., “Concept, Function and Structure of Environmental Law”, in C.O Okidi, P. Kameri -Mbote and Migai Aketch (eds.), Environmental Governance in Kenya; Implementing the Framework Law, (East African Educational Publishers, 2008), pp. 142–182: 146.

Peace Building Initiative, “Introduction: Justice, Rule of Law & Peacebuilding Processes, 2009” available at http://www.peacebuildinginitiative.org/indexe33f.html?pageId=1844 [Accessed on 17/5/2019].

Saboe, N.T., ‘Benefit Sharing Among Local Resource Users: The Role of Property Rights,’ World Development, Vol. 72, pp. 408–418, 2015, p. 408.

Samndong, R.A. & Nhantumbo, I., Natural resources governance in the Democratic Republic of Congo: Breaking sector walls for sustainable land use investments, (International Institute for Environment and Development Country Report, February 2015), p. 11. Available at http://pubs.iied.org/pdfs/13578IIED. pdf [Accessed on 17/5/2019].

Sigam, C. & Garcia, L., Extractive Industries: Optimizing Value Retention in Host Countries, (UNCTAD, 2012). Available at http://unctadxiii.org/en/SessionDocument/suc2012d1_en.pdf [Accessed on 12/08/2018].

Spring, Ú.O., “Peace and Environment: Towards a Sustainable Peace as Seen from the South.” In Globalization and Environmental Challenges, Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg, 2008, pp. 113-126.

Tsani, S., Natural resources, governance and institutional quality: The role of resource funds,’ Resources Policy, 38(2013), pp.181–195, p. 184.

Turkana County –United Nations Joint Programme 2015-2018, (Executive Office, Turkana County Government, Lodwar, Turkana UN Resident Coordinator Office, Nairobi, Kenya), p. 4. Available at https://info.undp.org/docs/pdc/Documents/KEN/ProDoc%20TurkanaUN%20Joint%20Programme%20final%205th%20%20March%202015- binder%20%282%29.pdf [Accessed on 17/5/2019].

UN General Assembly, Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, 21 October 2015, A/RES/70/1.

United Nations Conference on Environment & Development Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 3 to 14 June 1992.

United Nations Development Programme, Local Governance In Fragile And ConflictAffected Settings: Building A Resilient Foundation For Peace And Development, A UNDP how-to guide, 2016.

United States Institute of Peace, Natural Resources, Conflict, and Conflict Resolution, A Study Guide Series on Peace and Conflict for Independent Learners and Classroom Instructors, 2007, p.8.

United States Institute of Peace, Natural Resources, Conflict, and Conflict Resolution, A Study Guide Series on Peace and Conflict for Independent Learners and Classroom Instructors, 2007, p.8. 48 Alstine, J.V., et al, Resource Governance Dynamics: The Challenge of ‘New Oil’ In Uganda, Resources Policy, Vol. 40, 2014, pp.48–58.

Wiebelt, M., et al, ‘Managing Future Oil Revenues in Uganda for Agricultural Development and Poverty Reduction: A CGE Analysis of Challenges and Options,’ (Kiel Working Paper No. 1696, May 2011). Available at https://www.ifw-members.ifw-kiel.de/publications/managing-future-oil-revenues-in-ugandafor-agricultural-development-and-poverty-reduction-a-cge-analysis-of-challenges-andoptions/kap-1696.pdf [Accessed on 17/5/2019].

admin@thelawyer.africa | Website | + posts

News & Analysis

What is Carbon Markets?

Published

on

Written by Faith Nyambura Kabora, Advocate.

Carbon markets are a mechanism designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions which are essentially gases that trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to the negative impacts of climate change such as prolonged drought and rising of sea levels.

Carbon markets operate on the principle of putting a price on carbon emissions to create commercial/economic incentives for public and private entities to reduce their carbon footprint and invest in cleaner, sustainable practices.

Ideally, by putting a price on carbon, the carbon markets encourage sustainable environmental practices and help counties meet their emission reduction targets under international treaties, like the Paris Agreement, which Kenya is a signatory to. For a broader understanding, here is how a carbon market works;

  1. A Government establishes a limit on the total amount of greenhouse gas emission/pollution is allowed within its geographical limits;
  2. A grant, say permissions are created and distributed to eligible participants. This allowance represents the right to emit a certain amount of greenhouse gas;
  3. The participants can then buy and sell the allowances. Ideally, those who reduce their emissions more efficiently sell their surplus allowance to those who find it more challenging to reduce the emissions. If a company pollutes a lot, they need to buy more permissions, and if they do not pollute as much, they can sell their extra permissions.
  4. Entities are required to hold enough allowances to cover their actual emissions. If they exceed allocated allowances, they face penalties or, as expounded above, they buy additional allowances. This is the part where compliance becomes mandatory for all the key players.
  5. The price of the allowances fluctuates based on supply and demands and reflects the cost of emitting greenhouse gases. It is essentially like paying for pollution.

A carbon market plays a pivotal role in advancing climate action and promoting sustainable practices by incentivizing companies to reconsider their pollution practices, which can result in financial consequences as pollution becomes a costly endeavor. In Kenya, the introduction of a Carbon Market is imperative as the world confronts the dire consequences of climate change. Furthermore, it offers a commercial opportunity for investors considering the growing demand for environmentally friendly and carbon neutral products and services.

As mentioned above, the Paris Agreement is one of the most important international treaties dedicated strengthen global response to the negative impact of climate change. Ultimately, the Agreement’s goal is to motivate countries to limit global emissions and more importantly, to hold them accountable for their actions around reducing their carbon footprints.

Kenya as a signatory to the Paris Agreement has made significant contributions towards fulfilling the obligations under the Paris Agreement of limiting global temperature. The Climate Change (Amendment) Act 2023, nudges Kenya towards the realization of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement by introducing provisions and regulation of and participation in carbon markets.

+254 729-999-333 | info@mmaadvocates.co.ke | Website | + posts

As one of the top law firms in Nairobi, MMA Advocates is renowned for its proactive strategy and innovative legal lawyer advice. Our firm is committed to delivering strategic assistance that not only tackles current difficulties but also equips clients for future legal trends and advancements. As top lawyers in Nairobi Kenya, we take great satisfaction in our ability to combine in-depth legal knowledge with creative problem-solving. We keep a close eye on business trends and legal advancements to deliver timely guidance that enables our clients to make wise choices.

Our main goal as MMA Advocates is to establish long-lasting partnerships based on integrity, decency, and reliability. Since every client’s circumstance is unique, our best advocates in Kenya offer timely service and individualized attention at every stage of our collaboration. We make sure our clients are informed and empowered throughout their legal journey because we value openness and transparency in communication. In every case we take on, we are deeply committed to obtaining positive results and client satisfaction. This is just one aspect of our unwavering commitment to quality.

Whether you are a startup negotiating regulatory obstacles, an established corporation expanding, or a private citizen seeking legal assistance on personal problems, our Best Corporate Lawyers in Kenya are dedicated to becoming your legal partner. Our expertise include Commercial Litigation, Real Estate & Development, Fintech, Public Procurement (Public Private Partnerships), Project Finance, Public Law Litigation, Legal Audits & Compliance Advisory and Crisis Management.

We hope to arm you with the legal know-how and strategies needed to achieve your objectives. Our team enjoys taking on challenging legal matters with creativity and strategic understanding, protecting your rights and effectively achieving your goals. With a thorough comprehension of both regional laws and global norms, we are prepared to confidently and competently lead you through the complexities of corporate law.

In the intensely competitive legal arena, our tailored legal and strategic solutions distinguish us. We value depth over breadth, guaranteeing our clients our full dedication and unparalleled efficiency. Where many spread themselves wide, we narrow our focus to a select few of the most challenging cases. We tread the path less traveled.

To find out more about how MMA Advocates in Nairobi Kenya can help you with your legal issues, get in touch with us. With our team of committed professionals and our standing as one of the top law firms in Nairobi, we are well-positioned to offer outcomes that surpass expectations and guarantee your success in a legal environment that is always changing.

Continue Reading

News & Analysis

Review: Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Journal, Volume 12(3), 2024

Published

on

The Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Journal, Volume. 12, No.3, 2024 covers pertinent and emerging issues across all ADR mechanisms. This volume exposes our readers to a variety of salient topics and concerns in ADR including Building Peace in Africa, Public Policy as a Ground of Setting-Aside an Arbitral Award, Ethics, Integrity and Best Practice in Mediation, Accessing Justice in Kenya, Sports Arbitration, ESG Arbitration, Arbitration of Investor-State Dispute in Kenya, Article 159(2) of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 and issuance of interim measures by Arbitral Tribunals. The ADR Journal is a publication of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, Kenya Branch. It provides a platform for scholarly debate and in-depth investigations into both theoretical and practical questions in Alternative Dispute Resolution.

The journal is edited by Professor of Law at the University of Nairobi, Faculty of Law Hon Prof. Kariuki Muigua, a distinguished law scholar, an accomplished mediator and arbitrator with a Ph.D. in law from the University of Nairobi and widespread training and experience in both international and national commercial arbitration and mediation. Prof. Muigua is a Fellow of Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb)- Kenya chapter and also a Chartered Arbitrator. He is a member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, The Hague. He also serves as a member of the National Environment Tribunal. He has served as the Chartered Institute of Arbitrator’s (CIArb- UK) Regional Trustee for Africa from 2019 -2022.

In the paper “Building Peace in Africa through Alternative Dispute Resolution”  Hon. Prof. Kariuki Muigua critically discusses the role of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms in peace building in Africa. The paper argues that ADR mechanisms can play a fundamental role in building peace in Africa. The paper further posits that ADR mechanisms are able to enhance sustainable peace in Africa due to their focus on reconciliation and restorative justice. It proposes solutions towards building peace in Africa through ADR.

In “the Emergence of the International Commercial Court: A Threat to Arbitration of Investor-State Dispute in Kenya” Marion Injendi Wasike and Dr. Kenneth W. Mutuma argue that the proliferation of international commercial courts, including their introduction in Kenya, necessitates a thorough analysis of their implications on arbitration’s role in investor-state disputes. By juxtaposing these emerging judicial entities against traditional arbitration paradigms, the discussion aims to unravel the complexities and potential shifts in dispute resolution preferences, highlighting the balance between innovation in legal adjudication and the sustenance of arbitration’s revered position in the international legal order.

Kamau Karori SC, MBS in “Striking a Balance: A Delicate Dance Between Sanctity and Scrutiny” notes that the continuing debate —between upholding the inviolability of arbitral awards and judicial intervention in cases of egregious injustice points to the need for delicate balancing between non-interference and the need to correct unmistakably unjust awards. The urgency of this discourse is informed by the need to prevent consumers or potential consumers of arbitration services opting to exclude arbitration clauses due to perceived deficiencies. The article seeks to navigate the genesis of the debate, delicately dissect the different perspectives, and draw comparisons with global practices.

The article “Reforming Kenya’s Law on Probation and Aftercare Services to Promote Alternative Dispute Resolution” by Michael Sang engages in a comprehensive exploration of Kenya’s Probation of Offenders Act within the context of the growing role of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) principles in the nation’s criminal justice system. Drawing inspiration from international legal instruments such as “The Beijing Rules,” “Bangkok Rules,” and “Tokyo Rules,” the study evaluates the Act’s provisions, strengths, and limitations. It concludes with a call for thoughtful reforms that align Kenya’s criminal justice system with international standards, emphasizing a balanced and compassionate approach to justice.

The “Upholding Ethics, Integrity and Best Practice in Mediation” by Hon. Prof. Kariuki Muigua, OGW critically discusses the need for standardization of mediation practice in Kenya by adopting best practices. It examines some of the challenges facing mediation practice in Kenya. It is also explores measures adopted towards fostering best practices in mediation at both the global and national level. The paper further suggests recommendations aimed at upholding ethics, integrity and best practice in mediation. In “Exploring the Role of Mediation in Promoting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Fostering Economic Growth in Kenya” Atundo Wambare offers an in-depth analysis of the use of mediation in promoting the growth of small and medium enterprises (SME’s). He makes recommendations on how best mediation can be harnessed as a tool for economic growth in Kenya.

James Njuguna and Nyamboga George Nyanaro in “Compulsory Resolution or Autonomy Erosion? The Debate on Mandatory Sports Arbitration delve into the contentious issue of mandatory sports arbitration, questioning its role as a potential future pathway for dispute resolution. Their research examines the implications of compulsory arbitration on athletes’ autonomy, juxtaposing it with the benefits of expedited dispute resolution.

Paul Ngotho in “Constitution of Kenya 2010 Article 159.2.(c): Ancestry, Anatomy, Efficacy & Legacy” traces the rather odd origin and everlasting effect of the often-cited Article 159.2.(c) of the Constitution of Kenya 2010. It acknowledges the central role played by two members of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Kenya Branch, quietly and privately, away from the mainstream constitution making process. One of them chairman of the Branch, the other the Minister of Justice, National Cohesion and Constitutional Affairs.

David Onsare in “Navigating The ESG Maze: Emerging Trends in Arbitration and Corporate Accountability” embarks on a timely exploration of the dynamic interplay between Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors and arbitration, a field gaining critical importance in the realm of corporate accountability. By offering a comprehensive view of the complexities and practical implications of ESG in arbitration, the article serves as a crucial guide for legal professionals navigating the evolving landscape of corporate responsibility and arbitration. In “Public Policy as a Ground of Setting-Aside an Arbitral Award: Musings on the Centurion Engineers Civil Appeal Judgment”

Ibrahim Kitoo argues a case for upholding of public policy as a ground for the nonrecognition, non-enforcement and setting aside of an arbitral award in cases where to recognise and enforce such awards proves to be a clear violation of the law and against the public good. Juvenalis Ngowi in “Arbitral Tribunals: Do they have the power to issue interim measures during the proceedings?” discusses the powers of the Arbitral Tribunal to grant such orders and examines some procedural rules which empower arbitrators to issue such orders, the scope of those powers, and the factors to be considered when granting interim measures in the arbitral proceedings.

In “Examining the Efficacy of Mediation as A Tool for Accessing Justice in Kenya: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Perspectives” Murithi Antony undertakes a thorough examination of mediation as a form of ADR in the Kenyan context. He identifies opportunities arising from the integration of mediation into the country’s legal system and explores barriers impeding its widespread adoption. The article concludes with a resounding call to action for all stakeholders to champion the use of mediation collaboratively and proactively, given its proven efficacy in dispute resolution.

+254 020-2210281 | admin@kmco.co.ke | Website | + posts

Kariuki Muigua & Company Advocates is a Top-Tier Kenyan law firm situated at the heart of Nairobi city in Kenya. We are a broad-based practice with a reputation for offering a full range of quality services to our domestic and international clients.

At KM&CO, we take pride in offering personalized attention to our diverse clientele. Our practice aspires to offer efficient and cost-effective legal solutions that meet our esteemed clients’ needs in a timely and competent manner.

KM&CO was founded in 1993 by the current senior Advocate, Dr. Kariuki Muigua. It is based in the Central Business District of Nairobi at the Pioneer Assurance House located opposite 7th August Bomb Blast Memorial Park enjoying the convenience of close proximity to major financial, commercial and governmental institutions.

We are open for consultations with our clients worldwide; we have lawyers on standby for 24 hours to cover diverse time zones that impact on our global clients.

Continue Reading

News & Analysis

Way Forward in Applying Collaborative Approaches Towards Conflict Management

Published

on

By Hon. Prof. Kariuki Muigua, OGW, PhD, C.Arb, FCIArb is a Professor of Environmental Law and Dispute Resolution at the University of Nairobi, Member of Permanent Court of Arbitration, Leading Environmental Law Scholar, Respected Sustainable Development Policy Advisor, Top Natural Resources Lawyer, Highly-Regarded Dispute Resolution Expert and Awardee of the Order of Grand Warrior (OGW) of Kenya by H.E. the President of Republic of Kenya. He is the Academic Champion of ADR 2024, the African ADR Practitioner of the Year 2022, the African Arbitrator of the Year 2022, ADR Practitioner of the Year in Kenya 2021, CIArb (Kenya) Lifetime Achievement Award 2021 and ADR Publisher of the Year 2021 and Author of the Kenya’s First ESG Book: Embracing Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) tenets for Sustainable Development” (Glenwood, Nairobi, July 2023) and Kenya’s First Two Climate Change Law Book: Combating Climate Change for Sustainability (Glenwood, Nairobi, October 2023), Achieving Climate Justice for Development (Glenwood, Nairobi, October 2023), Promoting Rule of Law for Sustainable Development (Glenwood, Nairobi, January 2024) and Actualizing the Right to a Clean and Healthy Environment (Glenwood, Nairobi, March 2024)*

It is necessary to embrace and utilize collaborative approaches in managing conflicts. These techniques include mediation, negotiation, and facilitation. These mechanisms are effective in managing conflicts since they encourage parties to embrace and address disagreements through empathy and listening towards mutually beneficial solutions. Collaborative approaches also have the potential to preserve relationships, build trust, and promote long term positive change. They also ensure a win-win solution is found so that everyone is satisfied which creates the condition for peace and sustainability. These approaches are therefore ideal in managing conflicts. It is therefore important to embrace collaborative approaches in order to ensure effective management of conflicts.

In addition, it is necessary for third parties including mediators and facilitators to develop their skills and techniques in order to enhance the effectiveness of collaborative approaches towards conflict management. For example, it has correctly been observed that mediators and facilitators should listen actively and empathetically in order to assist parties to collaborate towards managing their dispute. Therefore, when a dispute arises, the first step should involve listening to all parties involved with an open mind and without judgment. This should entail active listening, which means paying attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues and acknowledging the emotions and perceptions involved.

It has been observed that by listening empathetically, a third party such as a mediator of facilitator can understand each person’s perspective and start to build a foundation for resolving the conflict through collaboration. In addition, while collaborating towards conflict management, it is necessary to encourage and help parties to focus on interests and not positions. It has been pointed out that focusing positions can result in a standstill which can delay or even defeat the conflict management process. However, by identifying and addressing the underlying interests parties can find common ground and collaborate towards coming up with creative solutions towards their conflict.

Mediators and facilitators should also assist parties to look for areas of agreement or shared goals. Identifying a common ground can build momentum and create a positive environment for resolving the conflict. Further, in order to ensure the effectiveness of collaborative approaches in conflict management, it is necessary to build strong collaboration. It has been asserted that strong collaboration can be achieved by establishing a shared purpose, cultivating trust among parties, encouraging active participation by all parties, and promoting effective communication.

Strong collaboration enables parties to develop trust between and among themselves and strengthen communication channels between the various parties. It also helps to generate inclusive solutions that arise from wider stakeholders’ views. Therefore while applying collaborative approaches, it is necessary for parties to foster strong collaboration by identifying common goals, building trust, ensuring that all stakeholders are involved, and communicating effectively in order to come up with win-win outcomes.

Finally, while embracing collaborative approaches in conflict management, it is necessary for parties to consider seeking help from third parties if need arises. For example, negotiation is always the first point of call whenever a conflict arises whereby parties attempt to manage their conflict without the involvement of third parties. It has been described as the most effective collaborative approach towards conflict management since it starts with an understanding by both parties that they must search for solutions that satisfy everyone.

It enables parties to a dispute to come together to openly discuss the issue causing tension, actively listen to each other, and come up with mutually satisfactory solutions. However, it has been correctly observed that negotiation may fail especially if the conflict is particularly complex or involves multiple parties due to challenges in collaborating. In such circumstances, where negotiation fails, parties should consider resorting to other collaborative approaches such as mediation and facilitation where they attempt to manage the conflict with the help of a third party. A mediator or facilitator can assist parties to collaborate and continue with the negotiations and ultimately break the deadlock.

*This is an extract from Kenya’s First Clean and Healthy Environment Book: Actualizing the Right to a Clean and Healthy Environment (Glenwood, Nairobi, January 2024) by Hon. Prof.  Kariuki Muigua, OGW, PhD, Professor of Environmental Law and Dispute Resolution, Senior Advocate of Kenya, Chartered Arbitrator, Kenya’s ADR Practitioner of the Year 2021 (Nairobi Legal Awards), ADR Lifetime Achievement Award 2021 (CIArb Kenya), African Arbitrator of the Year 2022, Africa ADR Practitioner of the Year 2022, Member of National Environment Tribunal (NET) Emeritus (2017 to 2023) and Member of Permanent Court of Arbitration nominated by Republic of Kenya and Academic Champion of ADR 2024. Prof. Kariuki Muigua is a foremost Environmental Law and Natural Resources Lawyer and Scholar, Sustainable Development Advocate and Conflict Management Expert in Kenya. Prof. Kariuki Muigua teaches Environmental Law and Dispute resolution at the University of Nairobi School of Law, The Center for Advanced Studies in Environmental Law and Policy (CASELAP) and Wangari Maathai Institute for Peace and Environmental Studies. He has published numerous books and articles on Environmental Law, Environmental Justice Conflict Management, Alternative Dispute Resolution and Sustainable Development. Prof. Muigua is also a Chartered Arbitrator, an Accredited Mediator, the Managing Partner of Kariuki Muigua & Co. Advocates and Africa Trustee Emeritus of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators 2019-2022. Prof. Muigua is a 2023 recipient of President of the Republic of Kenya Order of Grand Warrior (OGW) Award for his service to the Nation as a Distinguished Expert, Academic and Scholar in Dispute Resolution and recognized among the top 5 leading lawyers and dispute resolution experts in Band 1 in Kenya by the Chambers Global Guide 2024 and was listed in the Inaugural THE LAWYER AFRICA Litigation Hall of Fame 2023 as one of the Top 50 Most Distinguished Litigation Lawyers in Kenya and the Top Arbitrator in Kenya in 2023.

References

Bercovitch. J., ‘Conflict and Conflict Management in Organizations: A Framework for Analysis.’ Available at https://ocd.lcwu.edu.pk/cfiles/International%20Relations/EC/IR403/Conflict.ConflictManagementinOrga nizations.pdf (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Bercovitch. J., ‘Mediation Success or Failure: A Search for the Elusive Criteria.’ Cardozo Journal of Conflict Resolution, Vol. 7, p 289.

Bloomfield. D., ‘Towards Complementarity in Conflict Management: Resolution and Settlement in Northern Ireland,’ Journal of Peace Research., Volume 32, Issue 2.

Burrell. B., ‘The Five Conflict Styles’ Available at https://web.mit.edu/collaboration/mainsite/ modules/module1/1.11.5.html (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Demmers. J., ‘Theories of Violent Conflict: An Introduction’ (Routledge, New York, 2012).

Diana. M., ‘From Conflict to Collaboration’ Available at https://www.pmi.org/learning/library/conflict-collaboration-beyond-projectsuccess-1899 (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Food and Agriculture Organization., ‘Collaborative Conflict Management for Enhanced National Forest Programmes (NFPs)’ Available at https://www.fao.org/3/i2604e/i2604e00.pdf (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

International Organization for Peace Building., ‘Natural Resources and Conflict: A Path to Mediation.’ Available at https://www.interpeace.org/2015/11/naturalresources-and-conflict-a-path-to-mediation/ (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Isenhart. M.W., & Spangle. M., ‘Summary of “Collaborative Approaches to Resolving Conflict” ‘ Available at https://www.beyondintractability.org/bksum/isenhart-collaborative (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Kaushal. R., & Kwantes. C., ‘The Role of Culture and Personality in Choice of Conflict Management Strategy.’ International Journal of Intercultural Relations 30 (2006) 579– 603.

Leeds. C.A., ‘Managing Conflicts across Cultures: Challenges to Practitioners.’ International Journal of Peace Studies, Volume 2, No. 2, 1997.

May. E., ‘Collaborating Conflict Style Explained In 4 Minutes’ Available at https://www.niagara institute.com/blog/collaborating-conflict-style/ (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Miroslavov. M., ‘Mastering the Collaborating Conflict Style In 2024’ Available at https://www.officernd.com/blog/collaborating-conflictstyle/#:~:text=It’s%20one%20of%20the%20strat egies,their%20underlying%20needs %20and%20interests. (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Muigua. K & Kariuki. F., ‘ADR, Access to Justice and Development in Kenya.’ Available at http://kmco.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/ADR-access-tojustice-and-development-inKenyaRevised-version-of-20.10.14.pdf (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Muigua. K., ‘Alternative Dispute Resolution and Access to Justice in Kenya.’ Glenwood Publishers Limited, 2015.

Muigua. K., ‘Reframing Conflict Management in the East African Community: Moving from Alternative to ‘Appropriate’ Dispute Resolution.’ Available at https://kmco.co.ke/wpcontent/uploads/2023/06/ Reframing-ConflictManagement-in-the-East-African-CommunityMoving-from-Alternative-toAppropriate-Dispute-Resolution (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Muigua. K., ‘Resolving Conflicts through Mediation in Kenya.’ Glenwood Publishers Limited, 2nd Edition., 2017.

Quain. S., ‘The Advantages & Disadvantages of Collaborating Conflict Management’ Available at https://smallbusiness.chron.com/advantagesdisadvantages-collaborating-conflict-management-36052.html (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Samuel. A., ‘Is the Collaborative Style of Conflict Management the Best Approach?’ Available at https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/collaborative-style-conflictmanagement-best-approach-samuel-ansah (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

United Nations., ‘Land and Conflict’ Available at https://www.un.org/en/landnatural-resources-conflict/pdfs/GN_ExeS_Land%20and%20Conflict.pdf (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Weiss. J., & Hughes. J., ‘Want Collaboration?: Accept—and Actively Manage— Conflict’ Available at https://hbr.org/2005/03/want-collaboration-accept-andactively-manage-conflict (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

+254 020-2210281 | admin@kmco.co.ke | Website | + posts

Kariuki Muigua & Company Advocates is a Top-Tier Kenyan law firm situated at the heart of Nairobi city in Kenya. We are a broad-based practice with a reputation for offering a full range of quality services to our domestic and international clients.

At KM&CO, we take pride in offering personalized attention to our diverse clientele. Our practice aspires to offer efficient and cost-effective legal solutions that meet our esteemed clients’ needs in a timely and competent manner.

KM&CO was founded in 1993 by the current senior Advocate, Dr. Kariuki Muigua. It is based in the Central Business District of Nairobi at the Pioneer Assurance House located opposite 7th August Bomb Blast Memorial Park enjoying the convenience of close proximity to major financial, commercial and governmental institutions.

We are open for consultations with our clients worldwide; we have lawyers on standby for 24 hours to cover diverse time zones that impact on our global clients.

Continue Reading

Trending