Federalism and Inter-Ethnic Relations: Identity, Socio-Economic Affairs and their Dynamics in Western Ethiopia

Abstract

This study aims to examine the relationship between Gumuz and Oromo along the border administrative area. The study employed qualitative descriptive research to meet the stated objective of the study. Purposive sampling techniques were used to gather information. To attain the study objective, interviews, observation, and focus group discussions were used as primary data. Primary data were gathered from different informants in both the Oromo and Gumuz communities. A total number of 48 informants participated in the study.  The study showed that pre-1991 and post-1991, the relations between the Gumuz and Oromo communities in the study area have been shaped by the intertwined political and economic contexts. The political context implies how federalism was perceived and implemented and the role of the central government. Following the reorganization of territories during the adoption of Federalism in 1991. The study's findings revealed that the federalism way of conflict resolution mechanism is still used as a major way of resolving conflict in the study area.