The indigenous processes of conflict resolution of the Oromos of the Horn of Africa: Change and continuity

Source: TMs (photocopy). Fairfax, VA: George Mason University, Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution.

As interest increases in recent years in more effective mechanisms for managing and resolving social conflicts, many are pursuing studies of indigenous systems of peacemaking. Hamdesa Tuso contributes to these studies with this examination of conflict resolution processes in Oromo society. To set the context, Tuso sketches emerging dynamics profoundly affecting Oromo society in the last few decades, as well as the history of the Oromo people in Northeast Africa (Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia). Next is a discussion of the Oromo worldview and social structures, especially with respect to conflict and peace. Then Tuso delineates the basic steps in Oromo conflict resolution processes.