Abstract:
The main objective of this study is to explore the internal displacement of the Oromo from the Somali
Regional State and resettled at the Laga Xaafo Laga Dadhi Resettlement Site. It examines the causes and
consequences of displacement and the coping strategies of the displaced people. The study employed a
qualitative research method. Primary data was collected using interviews, focus group discussions and
observation. Secondary sources were also consulted, reviewed and integrated into the primary data to
provide a better picture of the issue under the study. The finding of this study revealed that the Oromo
people were displaced from the Somali region unwillingly because of different factors. As revealed in this
study, the dominant reasons for their displacement were their ethnic identity, political motives and desire
for economic dominance by the corrupt high ranking military personnel and their associated government
officials. As a result of forced displacement, some people were gunshot by the Liyu police, some were
beaten to death and some became physically disabled as a result of worsts measures. Women were raped,
beaten and part of their body was cut mercilessly. Pertinent to this, the displacement has also resulted in
different negative social and economic consequences. Families were separated, have lost their loved ones
and people’s social lives were disrupted. Furthermore, most of these people have lost their belongings,
properties, business and their job because of their displacement. Different challenges are facing the
displaced Oromo people dwelling in the studied resettlement site, including Economic, psychological,
social, cultural and environmental challenges. Although lots of challenges and problems are facing these
people, different coping strategies are being employed by the displaced people. Support from the
government, and relatives, involving in income-generating activities by the displaced people and
migrations to the different places were the major strategies to cope with the existing challenges. However,
the displaced people were mainly dependent on government support for their survival. Finally, based on
the finding of the study, the following recommendations were forwarded to the concerned stockholders to
improve the situation of the displaced Oromo from the Somali region. Thus psychological counseling
services should be provided for these people; the government needs to allocate the necessary budget and
resources for internal displacement crises and the government should develop policy and framework to
deal with such kinds of issues.
