Abstract:
The purpose of this research is to compare the indigenous and modern conflict resolution
mechanisms in Sayyo district. To this end, the study employed descriptive survey design,
which involves qualitative research approach. Important data for the study were collected
from both primary and secondary sources. Tools such as key informant interview, focus
group discussions, document analysis and non-participant observations were utilized for
collecting primary data depending on the objectives of the study. Accordingly, Sayyoo district
was selected through availability sampling. Then, elders, religious leaders, judges‟,
expertise, Abba Gadaa were selected purposefully for the interview, and for focus group
discussion. Then the data obtained from both primary and secondary sources were organized
thematically and analyzed qualitatively. The results of the study reveal that the people did not
immediately appeal to Jaarsa Araraa for their case but they would rather go to the police or
court immediately after they get in to conflict. In addition, it is found that the structure of
indigenous conflict resolution mechanism is missing its originality due to the weakening of
Gada system in the area, interference of government through one to five arrangements in
each kebeles; declining trust on elders of reconciliations, lack of effective enforcement
strategy of jaarsummaa and society‟s perception to consider using modern conflict resolution
as a sign of modernity. Moreover, this study also investigated some of the challenges of
modern conflict resolution in the study area like wrong witnesses, excessive government
intervention, delaying the case, lack of accessibility and vulnerability to corruption. With
regard to comparison both mechanisms were analyzed based on moral value, bringing
lasting peace, cost effectiveness, accessibility and evidence consideration. The study also
reveals that indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms are more effective than the modern
one in bringing lasting peace and are more accessible, flexible, participatory, quick, cheap
and relevant. Generally; the indigenous conflict resolution mechanism was not given
sufficient attention at the study area. Based on the findings, the researcher concludes that the
concerned bodies specifically the youth, elders, practitioners and the government should give
strong emphasis so as to preserve indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms and transfer
from generation to generation as of the modern one.
