| This dissertation is an analysis of the relationship between violent extremism and rural livelihoods in the Lake Chad Basin (LCB). The specific questions addressed are: Does struggle for livelihood and resources contribute to violent extremism? What are the effects of violent extremism on rural livelihoods, and what are the livelihood strategies for coping with violence from extremist groups? Since 2009, the Lake Chad Basin has witnessed increased insurgency from the Boko Haram militants, leading to the destruction of lives, livelihoods, and displacements. However, studies have shown that while violent conflict has adverse impacts on lives and livelihoods, more people survive than perish. People threatened by conflict often seek both short and long-term strategies to survive and protect their livelihoods. This study utilizes conflict resolution theories and the livelihood framework to analyze not only how livelihoods system are affected by violence, but how they might feed into the conflict and the associated coping strategies. The study delineates the impact of Boko Haram insurgency on the livelihood system of five communities in the Lake Chad region: Dalori, Pompomari, and Mubi (Nigeria); Bourrha (Cameroon); and Gagamari (Niger). Thus, contributes to the literature on rural livelihood resilience and countering violent extremism (CVE) in African communities. |
