The Inter-regional Migration Phenomenon: Response of the Indigenes of Majang Nationality Zone in GambeUa Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

This paper investigates the phenomenal rise 0/ migration and its detrimental
effects on the indigenes of Majang Nationality Zone in Gambel/a National Regional
State in the context 0/ 'ethnic-Jederalism '. The Majang:r identity is inherently
attached to specific forestland environment and its resource endowment.
Nevertheless, recent trends show that they have come under a serious threat of
Highlander land grabbers leading not only 10 the displacement 0/ significant
number of the people of Majang but also destruction of their forestland, water
sources and wild habitats at most frightening rate. The research reveals that
the invasion of the highland migrants has not only deprived the capability of
indigenous Majangfor livelihood source, for cultural continuity and sun'ival as
a community but also led to persistent migratory problems. Based onfirst-hand
empirical evidence collected/rom the study area and secondaty data, this study
concludes (hat the indigenes ' political life, economic rights and social security
have come under constant threat and hence the Majangfeel an existential threat
in their interactions with the Highlanders. This study, therefore, recommends
inter-regional migration policy reforms to avert the existing evident reality in the
Majang NationaliTy Zone.