Abstract:
The Berta people, also known as Benishangul. They are a relatively large minority group
who span the borders of Ethiopia and Sudan. They have their own customary conflict
resolution mechanism developed long time ago. The customary conflict resolution mechanism
remain as important way for peace-making in the Berta community. This study gives an overview
about the contributions of customary conflict resolution mechanism to peace, its challenges and
prospects; - the case of Berta community. The main objective was to assess the contributions,
challenges and prospects of Berta Community’s customary conflict resolution to peace. A
qualitative research approach and case study research design were implemented. Primary data
was collected through qualitative data collection techniques such as key informant interview and
focus group discussions while secondary data was collected through document analysis. Discourse
and textual data analysis method were used. A total number of 30 informants were participated in
the study.
The finding of the study shows that customary conflict resolution mechanism is contributing to
peace-making process in Berta community. The main challenges of customary conflict resolution
mechanisms in the case of Berta community includes Gender bias, local government domination,
negative attitude, lack of interest, inconsistence decision, lack of uniformity of application, lack of
written document, influence of local government and others. The future continuity of customary
conflict resolution mechanisms is under question because there is lack of political commitment in
the implementation of existing policy in Ethiopia. So as to improve the challenges and prospects of
customary conflict resolution mechanisms in the study area, awareness creation, including the
issue of customary conflict resolution in curriculum and providing legal recognition, and attitude
change are some suggested possible recommendations for the concerned bodies.
