Abstract:
The main objective of this study was identifying the causes of land conflict and resolution
mechanisms in the study area. The research design that the researcher employed was a
qualitative approach particularly case study. The respondents were selected using purposive
sampling technique. Moreover, in-depth interview, focus group discussion, observation and
document analysis were also employed to collect qualitative data. The finding of the study
indicated that inheritance; poor demarcation border trespass; land exchange agreement, land
grabbing and drainage are the causes of land conflicts. The study further explored land conflict
,
Abstract
resolution bodies; disputant farmers bring their case in to the formal and informal/ customary
conflict resolution mechanisms. The informants who have used those institutions first chose to
resort the conflict more likely the informal one. The study indicated that informal institutions
were find to be effective as compared to formal institutions of conflict resolution in the study
area. Furthermore, the study finds women provoking land conflict in the study area. The
informants who have used elders, women instigating land conflict by questioning their husbands
and children's manhood. Also, the actual roles women play in conflict resolution were passive;
and women faced different challenges to participate in peace process these were inequality and
time constraints. To minimize the causes of land conflict, the Woreda land administration and
office should reorganize the office by employing experts. To minimize land conflict, the
formation of land adjunction tribunal is important. In addition to that, the Woreda court should
give training for the kebeles land arbitration council, kebeles social court and local mediators/
elders. To reduce conflict crating awareness for women that instigating conflict and for all
inclusive settling dispute women should be included in the conflict resolution bodies.
Key words: land conflict, conflict resolution Mechanisms