GOMY: An Investigation of the Traditional Conflict Management System among the Gamo People (Gamo Zone), Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Region
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Date
2020-08
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
In Ethiopia, the traditional conflict management system has been playing significant role in
addition to formal court system for many years. These institutions are supporting the people to
manage their conflicts in the places where there is no adequate public service and lack of
government legitimacy.
The objective of this study is to explore GOMY an Investigation of the Traditional Conflict
Management System among the Gamo People (Gamo Zone), Southern Nations, Nationalities and
Peoples Region. In order to achieve the objectives of the study, qualitative research method and
exploratory research design was employed. Key informant interview, focus group discussion,
observation and document review were the central data collection techniques. Gamo zone was
selected based on purposive sampling techniques in conflict management system. Key informant
interviews were made with experts from culture and tourism directorate and elders from
different kebeles in the Gamo Zone. Also, purposive sampling technique was employed to select
the study participants for the focus group discussion.
Gomy as a traditional conflict management system has significantly contributed towards the
promotion of peace and security in the Zone. Gomy is served or used as reinforcing bar for
Dubbusha and Cima conflict resolution methods. Because, Gomy clearly stated, what is
transgression and sanction among the Gamo people. It helps people live in harmonious way
through mutual respect and care for each other as gomy contains political, economic and social
aspects. On the other hand, Gomy faces a lot of challenges from the urbanization, Christianity
and interference from the government. Moreover, it lacks attention from the government
institution to preserve and promote the system. The study shows that Gomy as a traditional
conflict management system plays significant role in promoting peace and security through
handling conflicts before the occurrence of loss of life and material destruction in the zone.
Hence, other nations and nationalities could take a lesson from the Gamo people in the time the
country is looking for an angle to spread the gospel of peace across the country.
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Keywords
Gamo people, Gomy, Conflict, Conflict Management