Research Findings Contribute to Conflict Resolution in Africa

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Research examining related themes of conflict transformation, African unity and regional integration led to Dr Clayton Hazvinei Vhumbunu graduating with a PhD in International Relations.

‘I was motivated to choose this particular topic by my firm belief in African unity and continental integration, and a profound conviction that peace and stability are a sine qua non for African development and prosperity,’ said Vhumbunu.

His study assessed the extent to which the secession of states can be considered a viable and sustainable strategy to resolve identity-based intra-state conflicts in Africa, using the secession of South Sudan from the Republic of Sudan in 2011 as a case in focus.

Vhumbunu’s research findings revealed that although secession may succeed legally as was the case in South Sudan, its peace-making and conflict transformation ability remains limited.

Vhumbunu proposed governance mechanisms that are relevant to the sustenance of peace, unity and integration in diversified polities.

The study findings contribute to conflict resolution, conflict transformation and post-conflict reconstruction in Africa especially at a time when more than half of African countries are confronted with secessionist movements.

Vhumbunu secured a full scholarship from the National Institute for Humanities and Social Sciences-Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (NIHSS-CODESRIA) under the African Pathways Scholarship Programme.

He thanked NIHSS-CODESRIA for funding his studies, and his family and supervisor Dr Joseph Rukema Rudigi for their unwavering support, inspiration and guidance.

‘PhD research is more than just drawing plans, setting goals and targets. Rather, it is about having the right attitude, commitment, dedication, discipline, will and determination to vigorously pursue the set targets,’ said Vhumbunu.

Words by: Melissa Mungroo

Photograph by Rajesh Jantilal