Integrated Bottom-up Economic Strategies for Combating Cattle Rustling in Kenya’s North Rift Region

Cattle rustling pose a significant challenge to security and economic stability in Kenya's North Rift Region, threatening livelihoods and exacerbating inter-communal conflicts. This paper aims to investigate the effectiveness of the integrated bottom-up economic approach in tackling this pervasive issue. The research is premised on the bottom-up theoretical paradigm and Social Capital theory. Descriptive and explanatory research designs and mixed methods approach were the main inclinations for this study methodology wise. Through numerous case studies and empirical evidence, the article demonstrates the effectiveness of the bottom-up approach in reducing cattle rustling incidents and fostering peace elsewhere and how it can be instituted in the North Rift Region of Kenya. The study findings confirmed that cattle rustling is sustained by cultural and traditional demands and interests which are deeply rooted in the social and economic fabric of the communities which engage in cattle rustling; commercialization of livestock and livestock products sustains the practice while politicization gives it credibility among those who profit from the illegal enterprise. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of a holistic, bottom-up strategy in combating cattle rustling in Kenya's North Rift Region. This study recommends economic empowerment initiatives to address the underlying drivers of cattle rustling, including poverty alleviation and increased livelihood opportunities among the affected communities by key stakeholders. Additionally, policy interventions are essential for creating an enabling environment conducive to sustainable peace and security. Moreover, cross-border cooperation and regional partnerships are vital for addressing transnational dimensions of cattle rustling and preventing the proliferation of illicit arms. Key Words, Cattle rustling, Bottom-up economic approach, Stakeholder collaboration, Community Engagement, Peacebuilding