Inter-Ethnic Conflicts Between the Hadiya and Halaba of Ethiopia: Major Factors, Resolution Mechanisms and Current Trends

Inter-ethnic conflicts become a pervasive and salient dimension of socio-political discourses in several countries of the world. Most of such conflicts are linked with resource management at the mosaic boundaries of ethnicities. In the present study populations, violent conflicts have been experienced in the years 2012-2014 and peaceful co-existence in border areas has been affected since then. The two communities had a long history of close relationships. The major objective of the study was to investigate the underlying causes and consequences of inter-ethnic conflicts between the Hadiya and Halaba ethnic groups, SNNPR, Ethiopia. The study also targeted to explores the triggering factors of conflict and institutions involved the conflict resolution process. Methodologically, the study employed a qualitative research approach with purposive sampling method. The tools used to collect data were in-depth key informant interview, focus group discussion, case study and relevant documents analysis. Data analysis was made thematically and narratives were included. The major findings of the study indicated that economic, political and socio-cultural factors have played a great role for inter-ethnic conflicts in the study area. Furthermore, the ethnocentric actions of exclusion and marginalization of a minority group (Muslim Halaba) adjacent to Halaba Zone by a majority group (Christian Hadiya) in Hadiya Zone led the conflict to antagonistic featured competitions. Efforts that have been made so far by local system of conflict resolution mechanisms to curb these conflicts through formal and informal institutions have been useful. However, sustainable peace-full co-existence among the two groups couldn’t be maintained.