The Role of Community Conversation in preventing irregular migration: The Case of Anedegna Tunto Kebele, Kembta Tembaro Zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study attempted to gain an in-depth understanding 0f the role that community conversation plays in preventing irregular migration with the objectives of identifying the major role that community conversation plays in preventing irregular migration; the factors or conditions that affect the prevention of irregular migration through community conversation;and the challenges of implementing community conversation as a prevention mechanism of irregular migration in Anedegna Tunto kebele of Kembata Tembaro zone, SNNPR, Ethiopia. A single case study research design from a qualitative research approach with the purpose of exploration was used. Research data were collected through document review, interviews, and FGD from the community members, returnees, and stakeholder representatives. The participants have been selected based on the non-probability sampling technique purposefully. Accordingly, the participant size was determined based on the principle of data saturation. I have analyzed the data manually by following the six phases of thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that community conversation plays a significant role in curbing the misconception that a family and a wider community constructed towards irregular migration and also enhancing the people’s awareness of the exploitative nature of irregular migration in Andegna Tunto kebele. Findings point out, the formulation of bylaws and binding rules by Community Based Organizations and religious institutions are serving as the backbone to curb the misconception among the villagers towards irregular migration. Conclusions drew from the findings of this study; the implication addressed two areas or issues that need further investigation by researchers. The contribution of community conversation for discouraging potential migrant decision of irregular migration. And the integrations of the rule formulated by CBOs with modern legislative or other appropriate measures to prevent irregular migration. Finally, I recommended further studies with large scope and comprehensive method (with both qualitative and quantitative approaches) should be conducted on the prevention of irregular migration through community conversation