Reclaiming Indigenous Leadership in Conflict Resolution: The Role of the Gada System in Peacebuilding Between the Gedeo and West Guji Communities, Ethiopia

Abstract

This paper examines how indigenous leadership systems and practices particularly
the Oromo Gada system contribute to conflict prevention, mitigation, and
reconciliation in the West Guji–Gedeo context of southern Ethiopia. Following the
2018 inter-communal violence that produced massive displacement and social
fragmentation, the study explores how renewed ethnic awareness, leadership gaps,
and the marginalization of customary institutions have affected local capacity to
manage conflicts. Drawing on a mixed-methods field study (540 participants across
nine woredas; 9 FGDs and 9 KIIs; targeted surveys of community elders and faith
leaders) and an extensive literature review, findings indicate that traditional leaders
retain strong legitimacy and that indigenous practices (e.g., Gondooroo,
Jarsuummaa) are effective in achieving restorative justice and social healing.
However, these institutions face three main constraints: (1) incomplete leadership
formation due to historical disruption; (2) weak formal recognition within state
structures; and (3) political manipulation by local actors. The article argues for
legal pluralism and hybrid governance a policy pathway that integrates indigenous
leadership systems with modern institutions through standardized leadership
development, mutual institutional recognition, and community-engaged
peacebuilding programs. Doing so will not only reduce the recurrence of violent
disputes but also strengthen locally owned, culturally congruent foundations for
peace.