Impact and its Associated Factors of Inter Ethnic Conflict Between Afar and Somali Communities the Case of Amibara, Gewane and Mille Woredas, Zone Three Afar Region

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to examine the impact and associated factors of ethnic conflict between Afar and Somali communities in the case of Amibara, Gewane and Mille Woredas, Afar Regional State. To achieve this objective, the study employed a qualitative research approach with a case study design. The study used primary and secondary sources. Primary data was collected through in-depth interviews, FGDs and personal observation. To select key informants and FGD discussants, non-probable sampling, particularly the purposeful sampling technique, was employed. The study's findings indicate that competition over control and access to natural resources such as pasture, water, and land, politicization of ethnicity, territory claims and the proliferation of SALWs have been major causes of violent conflict. Moreover, the finding also revealed that the major impact of Afar and Somali violent inter-ethnic conflict has manifested itself in ways like human and livestock deaths, depletion of financial assets, destruction of infrastructure, degradation of natural resources, forced migration, loss of biodiversity, inaccessible health services, low food production, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. Finally, to bring lasting and durable peace, there is a need to adopt constructive and long-term solutions through inclusivity, cohesion and cultural tolerance among two communities.