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

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