Local Government as a means for Ensuring Self-Rule in Gambella Peoples National Region State: the Case of Itang Special Woreda
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Date
2018-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
In the Ethiopian federal system, local governments have been established, among others, for the
accommodation of diversity and administrative purpose. This study explores the value of
establishing local government to accommodate intra-state minority in Gambella regional state.
The region has established nationality zones and special woreda to accommodate the
“indigenous” ethnic communities. Specially, Itang special woreda is the interesting case study
area for three reasons: (i) It is established for both regional majority Anyuaa and Nuer ethnic
groups and for the regional minority of Opo ethnic community; (ii) It has been a cause for ethnic
conflict in the region. (iii) The residents of the special woreda have representatives in both
Anyuaa and Nuer nationality zones over and above in the special woreda. Accordingly, the study
assesses the significance of establishing Itang as special woreda to accommodate intra-local
minority. The study has used primary sources obtained from the key informants of the study
area. On the other hand, to address the objectives and to answer the questions of the study
secondary sources were used. As the findings show it is difficult to conclude Itang was
established based on adequate legal framework and agreement of the three “indigenous” ethnic
groups. As a result the special woreda is challenged to; accommodate intra-local diversity,
manage ethnic-based conflict, improve the access of public-service, and minimize political
tension between the Anyuaa and Nuer ethnic groups.