The Role of Traditional Conflict Resolution Mechanism to ensure peace making and stability. The Case of Wash Zigba Sera, Enor Ener Woreda in Gurage Zone.

Abstract

Conflict is inevitable. Different societies handle it in various traditional and modern ways. Gurage people in general and Enor Ener Gurage in particular have their own traditional law that maintain peace and prevent conflict. Thus the aim of this study is the role of Wash Zigba Sera, a traditional conflict resolution mechanism in peace making and stability in Enor Ener Woreda. The study also investigates the causes of conflict among Enor Ener Woreda. To achieve the above objectivesqualitative study appoarch and Descriptive design is used. Primary data were collected from different informants in Enor Ener Woreda by employing such qualitative data collection techniques as an interview, focus group discussions and observation. A total number of 34 informants and discussants were participated in the study. The finding of this research reveals that the traditional conflict resolution mechanism is one of conflict resolving instrument in the study area. Accordingly, the causes of conflict among Enor Ener Woreda can broadly be classified into social and economic domains. Social instability and quarrel are among the causes of the conflict that result life losses. Conflicts of all type mostly resolved through traditional ways. The cases are traditionally adjudicated by elders in accordance with the traditional law called Kitcha/Sera. The elder’s council takes place under Zigba/yellow wood/ tree /Wash. As the homicide conflict case resolved through the customary way, the process can be seen in three phases. The first phase is Hetrat/cease fire where the conflicting parties are protected from further destruction. In the second stage litigation takes place among the disputant parties then verdict shall be given as to the type of murder (intentional or unintentional). Then, the reconciliation process takes place and a befitting compensation corresponding to the type of murder shall be given to the victim family’s .They make different ritual performances in order to clean from the crime. With heart full forgiveness both parties will avoid revenge and can live ahead peacefully. Having performed the ritual ceremony, parties can socialize each other.