Abstract:
Peace is a necessary antecedent condition for societies to continue and remain prosperous.
However, conflict occurring among individuals, between communities violet peace and stability of
the society. This thesis aimed at exploring the role of Tyitenpuren, indigenous conflict resolution
institution among the Bench people of southern Western Ethiopia. There researcher employed
qualitative exploratory research method so as to meet the stated objectives .To that end, the
researcher collected primary data from different informants in Semen Bench, Debub Bench, and
Shei[shey] Bench Woreda and in and around Mizan-Aman town administration. In terms of data
collection tools for the required qualitative data, the researcher used interview, focus group
discussions and observation. Overall a total number of 62 informants participated in this study.
With respect to secondary data sources, from published and unpublished books, journal articles
and government documents were used. Up on such qualitative data finding of the study revealed
three concluding remarks. First and foremost the indigenous Tyitenpuren, institution is one among
the various indigenous approaches for resolving conflict within the study area. Secondly the study
came up with major causes and sources of conflict within the study area with subsequent
indigenous approaches for their resolution, especially through Tyitenpuren, institution. Thirdly
the study identified alludes with the prevailing criterion for selection of elder for conflict resolution
institution and the study areas indigenous rules of law enforcement. Additionally the research also
came up with the apparent relationship between indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms
(ICRM). Overall the study concluded that, Tyitenpuren, institution plays pivotal role within Bench
community with respect to resolving different conflicts. Then, the reconciliation process takes
place around the big river and a befitting compensation corresponding to the type of murder shall
be given to the victim family’s .They make different ritual performances in order to clean from the
crime. Eventually the two opposing groups sincerely apologize and eliminate hostility. And having
performed the ritual ceremony, parties can socialize each other
