20^th International Conference of Ethiopian Studies (ICES20)
Mekelle University, Ethiopia

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INDIGENOUS INTER-ETHNIC PEACE BUILDING AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION INSTITUTION: THE CASE OF GURRAACHA AMONG THE PEOPLE OF SOUTH CENTRAL ETHIOPIA [Abstract ID: 1215-06]

LENIN Kuto Hamado, MA in Oromo Folklore and Cultural Studies, Lecturer at Jimma University, Department of Oromo Folklore and Literature, Ethiopia.
AYEHU Bacha Teso, MA in Oromo Folklore and Cultural Studies, Lecturer at Jimma University, Department of Oromo Folklore and Literature, Ethiopia.
GEMECHU Taye

This article deals with Gurraacha institution, which is very important in inter-ethnic peace building and conflict resolving mechanism among the people of South Central Ethiopia. This institution was named after the Oromo term ‘Gurraacha’ (literally meaning black) to indicate its power in inter-ethnic peace building and conflict resolution. It is one elements of Oromo Gadaa system which was established time immemorial to sustain peace between Oromo and non-Oromo neighbouring ethnic groups. The data for this study was collected through interviews, observation and focus group discussions in 2014 and 2015. This study revealed that Gurraacha institution is a guarantee for sustaining peace among people of South Central Ethiopia by managing conflict over boundary, grazing land, looting cattle and water points. Overall, the study concluded that Gurraacha institution has real significance in inter-ethnic peace-building and sustaining social harmony and inter-ethnic conflict resolution. Therefore, using this indigenous institution for future policy formulation in the country as inter-ethnic peace building and conflict resolution model is important for the realization of sustainable peace and development.