Indigenous Conflict Resolution Mechanisms among the Konso Community, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

The Konso community has been practicing indigenous conflict resolution systems and mechanisms to maintain the values of peace, justice, tolerance, cohesion, and respect since time immemorial. This paper centers on the significant components of the socio-cultural milieus of the Konso community that are in any way linked to conflict and the indigenous conflict resolution mechanism. It examines the process of conflict resolution, its value, and its principles. It highlights the importance of the conflict resolution mechanism, some of its weaknesses, and the need to subsume the usage of surrogate conflict resolution by all contestants. It finds that the Arrara mechanism of the Konso people is the most effective cultural method of dispute resolution, though it is not inclusive in terms of gender. The study thus suggests the reinforcement, support, and promotion of indigenous conflict resolution institutions and mechanisms based on the principles, norms, and values of conflict resolution and peace building.