Conflict Transformation in South Omo Zone Pastoralist and Agro-Pastoralist Community of Ethiopia

Abstract

This study explores conflict transformation practices and actors through an analytical research approach. It reveals that various actors engaged in conflict and peace initiatives have primarily focused on activities cantered around conflict management, prevention, and resolution. This limited emphasis on conflict transformation is attributed to a lack of governmental attention to strategic planning in this regard. Sources of conflict identified include grievances, animal raiding, land disputes, fishing rights, and competition over water and pasture resources. Efforts aimed at conflict transformation encompass resilience-building, rangeland management, NGO interventions in peace dialogues, integration of pastoralism and agro-pastoralism with commercial agriculture, implementation of drought and conflict early warning systems, water resource management and development, range land rehabilitation, and provision of education to affected communities. While these activities have played a significant role in addressing conflicts and transforming relationships, they are deemed insufficient and inadequately executed for comprehensive conflict transformation. Nonetheless, they serve as vital drivers of peace. Although the current conflict transformation mechanisms in place have not resulted in significant changes in the conflict situation, the beginnings are promising and commendable. The government and other stakeholders are urged to engage in proactive conflict intervention mechanisms to effectuate conflict transformation and foster peace or mitigate its adverse impacts. Furthermore, the study advocates for the provision of informal peace education to all adult community members, with the possibility of formalizing this education as an existing conflict transformation option.