Hadiya Women Approach to Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding in Ethiopia: A Cultural Perspective

This study explores the role of Hadiya women in traditional peacemaking practices in Ethiopia, specifically focusing on how their gender impacts conflict management. A qualitative research method with an ethnographical research approach was used to accomplish this study. The data for this study was collected from both primary and secondary sources. Hence, In-depth interviews, FGD, observation, and document analysis were employed to gather the information. The results of the study show that even if women are excluded from traditional Hadiya leadership positions, they are highly respected and have a great role in peacemaking when conflicts arise within the community. The findings further showed that in the Hadiya culture, women play a great role in conflict resolution and peacemaking situations through exclusive women-owned indigenous conflict resolution methods such as Landisikka/refined stick/, Landimachcha/loincloth/ and Hiffichcho/spiritual power or authority of women/. Therefore, the Hadiya women’s exemplary role in indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms and peacemaking should be well documented and recognized as well.