Resource 1: A family conflict

Teacher resource for planning or adapting to use with pupils

In the Kisongo family, the husband provided money for the family’s needs each week. One day, Father had to explain to Mother that he did not have enough money to meet her needs. She did not want to listen. She stormed out of the room and slammed the door behind her.

The next morning, the atmosphere at home was tense, as Mother would not listen to Father’s explanations. Father kept trying to explain to Mother why he did not have enough money, but she wouldn’t listen.

After some time, Father urged the children to talk to Mother. This they did, asking her to be patient. She listened to them and agreed.

Mother listened carefully and came to understand why this week Father had not had enough money – he had needed to lend some to his brother to pay for his children’s school fees.

When she heard this, she understood the problem. But in return, she asked that the family’s food money be put to one side before anything be lent to others, and topped up a little to meet the rising cost of foodstuffs. Father agreed.

The tense atmosphere at home became relaxed and everyone left home for the day’s activities feeling happy. Mother gave Father a hug and kiss. Father returned with a smile. Normal relations returned to the family.

3. Community conflicts

Resource 2: ‘Cattle clash sparks bitter feud in 2001’