Promoting People’s Coexistence and Interdependencies in North Shoa and Oromo Nationality Zones: an Urge for Crisis Communication and Reconciliation

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to advocate the restoration of peaceful coexistence in Ethiopia. Qualitative advocacy research approach was used in gathering and analyzing of data. The study shows that Ethiopia has a historic and exemplary coexistence and interdependence grounded on social harmony, common market, shared history and psychological makeup. Previously in some occasions of conflicts, people resolve it using indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms. The recent conflict in the area is unique in its nature, intensity, level of damage and post conflict situations; and brought socioeconomic and psychological effects which were hard to resolve in usual ways. Since reconciliation is not done, the people to people relation is full of suspicion and doubt. Due to this the conflict left unresolved. As a result the area became hotspot for further mobilization by different political actors. Therefore, the researchers urge intervention through public dialogue, post conflict trauma recovery, compensating the victims, elite bargaining and maintaining law and order.