Abstract:
This paper examines conflicts among Guji rural communities and their indigenous methods of
conflict resolution in Dugda Dawa district, West Guji zone, Oromia regional state, Ethiopia.
Methodologically, data were collected from both primary and secondary sources. Non probability sampling techniques were employed to select sample kebeles and informants. 4
rural kebeles were purposively selected from the 14 total kebeles of the district. A total of 144
participants (96 KII and 48 FGD discussants) were selected by using snowball sampling
methods. The primary data of the study were collected through KII, and FGD, and analyzed
by thematic method of data analysis. Hence, the results of this study revealed that competition
over grazing land, fragmentation in land use system, in appropriate utilization of existing
resources and land alienation and encroachment are among the major causes of the conflict
among the rural communities in the study area. Loss of lives, severe physical injuries, loss of
properties, restricted mobility, reduced social relationships, forced migration etc. are among
main consequences of conflicts. The findings of the study revealed that Guji-Oromo people of
Dugda Dawa district use customary methods of reconciliation such as Jaarsummaa, and
Gondooroo to resolve disputes and also violent conflicts. Minor conflicts and disputes are
likely resolved through Jaarsummaa by the mediation of community elders. However, serious
cases related to severe physical injuries and losses of human life are likely dealt through
Gondooroo by the mediation of Gada leaders and Hayyuu
