Managing geothermal project implementation conflicts through mediation: A case of Olkaria IV Project, Nakuru county, Kenya

Geothermal energy installations generate conflicts that escalate when improperly managed. Studies from outside Kenya have demonstrated application of mediation in managing over natural resources. However, its efficacy has not been adequately covered Kenya. This study used the case between project affected persons (PAPs) and developers Olkaria IV to document process, assess role resolving emanated implementation project. A PAPs’ household heads survey, focus group discussions (FGDs), key informant interviews (KII) were conducted. Primary data was collected on pre-mediation preparations; attributes, post-mediation buy-in endorsements sequel mediation. Secondary obtained documents available archive. The protagonists, is, Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) PAPs agreed use resolve their conflicts. neutralized KenGen PAPs, mended relationships them, improved livelihoods smoothened operations. community representatives, selected by themselves, regularly reported back held consultation with larger community. promoted acceptability results is here presented as a good practice, addition having competent mediators listening probing skills. Further, inclusion women youth exercise combined freedom expression during clinics, ensured weaker gender’s voice heard input incorporated agreement. In spite above, there need for greater democratization representation, more comprehensive documentation process. last two provide opportunity copying this an Finally, it recommended policies be formulated mediations alternative dispute resolution mechanism, future developmental