Ethnic Conflicts and Mechanisms of Their Resolution between Afar and Oromo in the North -East Ethiopia: From1991-2015
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2020-05
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This study explores ethnic conflicts and mechanisms of their resolution between Afar and Oromo in the adjacent woreda of Afar and Amhara National Regional States in the northeast Ethiopia. Emperical data were gathered through key informant interviews, focus group discussions supplemented by informal conversations. The findings of the study show that the post-1991 Oromo in Dawa Harawa and their neighboring Afar in Dawe interactions were characterized by twofold relations, peaceful and conflicting. Peaceful interactions were spoiled by various factors that have contributed to conflicts. Such pacific and friendly relations have gradually been eroded after the introduction of ethnic- based federalism in Ethiopia. The study has identified root causes and triggering factors of the conflict. The root causes of the conflict are attributed to contested boundary, competition over natural resources, ethnic-based federalism, environmental degradation and drought and violent cultural practices. The Afar -Oromo conflict has also been triggered by Issa-Somali pressure, acts of homicide, theft and looting, government developments schemes, illegal arms, ethno-political parties. Furthermore, the study found that public grievances, distrust between the government and people, and hindrance to consensus and unity are the political factorsthat have attributed to the effects of the conflict. Findings of the study have also revealed that various conflict resolution mechanisms have been practiced among the two groups. Public conferences and establishment of joint peace committees are major accomplishments in changing attitudes. Exchange of criminals, legalization to control behavior and addressing the underlying causes of the conflict, such as some infrastructural developments are undertaken to redress contradictions of the communities. The study revealed that absence of comprehensive and all-inclusive conflict resolution mechanisms, led to continuation and escalation of conflicts between the Afar and Oromo ethnic groups in the borders of Afar and Amhara Regional States in the northeast Ethiopia. Instead, the over- all efforts of all stake holders refer to attempts on ad-hock approaches and elite perspective of ethnic conflict management to minimize the consequences of ongoing crises. The absence of holistic approach and proactive measures in the resolution mechanisms has left Afar-Oromo conflict far from viable solution. It is commendable that the best practices of the two resolution styles (the indigenous and the modern) be harmonized.
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Ethnic Conflicts and Mechanisms of Their Resolution between Afar and Oromo in the North -East Ethiopia: From1991-2015