INTER-ETHNIC GROUP CONFLICT AMONG JARSO OROMO AND SOMALI ISSA IN EASTERN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Ethiopia is a land of diverse ethnic groups with experienced colorful ethnic interactions for eras. Considering this fact into account, this study assessed an Inter-ethnic Relations among the Jarso Oromo and the Somali Issa people in Eastern Ethiopia. To do so, the study employed a mixed approach to studying Convergent design research via a mixing of descriptive surveys and exploration of ideas, thoughts, and meanings. Data was gathered from 130 participants, including 114 males and 16 females, using stratified random sampling among probability sam pling. These participants were selected by using the technique of stratified random sampling among probability sampling that was used to make non-homogenous populations by sex, age, and location based on their race, language, and behavior. Data collection techniques were; Questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions were used as data gathering instru ments. Descriptive statistical techniques for data analysis by using Statistical Packages for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software models 'Independent sample t-test to measure the level of data frequencies, percentages, and standard deviation, and to interpret words with examples. De scriptive statistical techniques were used to measure the level of data frequencies, percentages, and standard deviation. The findings of the study revealed that the two groups have had long periods of friendly relations expressed by inter-ethnic marriage and friendship in religious religiously based social practices. However, the relationship between the two groups has harshly boundaries, creating inter-ethnic conflict that results in violence. Attempts made to de escalate the conflict were heard, acknowledged, and accepted their feelings, apologized for their contribution, and should be working on common interests in the future. The paper con cluded that the mere existence of ethnic differences was not a cause for hostility to inter-ethnic relations, while the reality in Ethiopia today demands the adoption of democracy and the recognition of both individual and group identities. To recommend sustainable inter-ethnic relations, researchers, government, non-governmental organizations, and religious institu tions must work on common interests and preventive majors through national dialogues on this issue.