Psychosocial Roles of Gumaa as an Indigenous Conflict Resolution Mechanism: With Particular Reference to West Arsi Zone

Abstract

Gumaa is one of the large numbers of Oromo indigenous institutions
that helps the community to handle their problems in their own way.
It has been, particularly, used to settle blood feuds of various types.
Hence, the major purpose of the study was to explore the practices
and psychosocial roles of Gumaa as an indigenous conflict resolution
mechanism in West Ari Zone. For this purpose, a qualitative research
approach was employed in the study. More specifically, three Elders
from the victim clan, three elders fro
neutral elders (intermediaries) from different clans, and seven
and one Tourism officer from the zone) were selected by using
purposive sampling. Focus Group Discussion and Semi-structure
interviews were used for data collection purpose. Thematic data
analysis approach was followed. From the data analysis the following
major findings were drawn, Gumaa: has a collective focus, has
collective compensation payment, ignores the past and focuses on
building peaceful future, avoids the escalation of the conflict,
uncommon to use witnesses, has no backdoor deals, protects social