Abstract
M.Tech. (Operations Management)
This research report is based on the premise that media and public information strategies are perceived as effective tools for improving the quality of peacekeeping operations in Sub-Saharan Africa for socio-economic development. The study argues that socio-economic development will become effective only if communication occurs through the socio-economic model elaborated by Edoun and Mbohwa (2015) as well as through a Nexus model in which Evans (2013) dwelt extensively on the issue. Edoun and Mbohwa’s model holds that socio-economic development can only happen if an organisation receives the necessary information that will assist in peacekeeping mission strategies in conflict zones. However, in order to achieve this, the mission needs to consider a number of challenges that are critical in paving the way for a smooth transition. These include, interalia, political, operational and institutional challenges. The Model of Idriss Evans (2013) identified democratic institutions, civil society, and local capacity as the three main components related to peace building and democracy building. Based on the two models and using the Democratic Republic of the Congo as a case, the current study further argues that tools for an effective communication strategy should at all levels involve the media and related information practitioners that form the backbone for policy formation and implementation. Using a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods of inquiry, the study was able to generate further insights in terms of where the information originates from, how it was processed using a specific method that contributes in providing the solutions that ought to be established in the form of constructive recommendations that will contribute to the body of knowledge for future research.