Socio-Economic Effects and Prospects of Oromo-Somali Conflicts: The Case of Miesso District of Oromia, and Mullu District of Somali Regional States, Eastern Ethiopia

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the socio-economic effects and prospects of capacities of sustainable peace surrounding the conflicts between Oromo-Somali PAP groups in the study area. Conflicts between <i>Oromo </i>and <i>Somali </i>PAP groups have existed in different forms for centuries. A number of empirical studies were conducted on the effects of Oromo-Somali conflicts between the PAP groups in a generic manner. Nonetheless, earlier studies have methodological dearth in pinpointing conflict of interests between range resources users, the main effects of conflicts and prospects of peace in the study area. So, it needs to bridge existing information and knowledge gaps. Hence, 160 PAP households were randomly selected to facilitate primary data collection by using household survey. Qualitative data were also collected by using key informant interviewees (KIIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs). Descriptive research design; descriptive and inferential statistics were employed. The proportion of sample households composed of 49% of Oromo and 51% Somali groups. The result of findings showed death and injury, internal displacement, destruction of infrastructure and public services, weakening of customary institutions; loss of household assets and livelihoods, weakening government capacity, land degradation and fertility deterioration due to lack of natural resources management were also found the socio-economic impacts of violent conflicts. Traditional customary and formal security institutions were found the important factors of capacities of peace. Strengthening the formal and customary institutions in defining and enforcing property rights, limiting opportunistic behavior would help significantly to maintain rule of law and ensure sustainable peace. Sustainable development interventions and looking for alternative solution to the degrading and deteriorating resource environment are critical to reduce vulnerability in the study area.