Peacebuilding in Correctional Institutions: Explaining the Recurrence of Inmate Conflicts Despite Mediation Measures in Buea Central and Douala New Bell Central Prisons, Cameroon

Inmate conflicts remain a persistent challenge within correctional institutions despite the implementation of various mediation and conflict-resolution measures. In Cameroon, existing prison conflict-management approaches have largely emphasised institutional security and disciplinary control, with limited empirical attention given to the implementation of mediation measures within correctional settings. This study examined the implementation of mediation measures in managing inmate conflicts in Buea Central Prison and Douala New Bell Central Prison, Cameroon. An explanatory mixed-methods research design was adopted, integrating quantitative and qualitative data to provide a comprehensive assessment of mediation practices. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to prison staff and inmates, while qualitative data were generated through semi-structured interviews with prison administrators, correctional officers, inmates, and selected stakeholders. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and one-way analysis of variance, whereas qualitative data were analysed thematically and integrated with the quantitative findings. The findings indicate that prison authorities implement several mediation measures, including dialogue before punishment, complaint-handling procedures, counselling, educational and sensitisation programmes, and collaboration with chaplains and external organisations. However, their implementation remains inconsistent because of overcrowding, staff shortages, limited mediation training, inadequate grievance management, fear of intimidation among inmates, and operational pressures that prioritise immediate institutional control over long-term reconciliation. Although dialogue and mediation contribute to resolving minor disputes, participants reported that serious conflicts are frequently managed through punitive responses, limiting opportunities for sustainable peacebuilding. The statistical analysis further revealed significant differences in respondents' perceptions regarding the implementation of mediation measures, confirming inconsistencies in institutional practice. The study concludes that mediation has become an important component of prison conflict management within the two correctional institutions but remains constrained by structural and institutional challenges that reduce its overall effectiveness. Strengthening mediation capacity, improving grievance procedures, expanding preventive peacebuilding programmes, and enhancing institutional support for mediation are essential for promoting sustainable conflict management within Cameroon's correctional institutions.