Dynamics of Inter-Ethnic Relations, Peaceful Co-Existence, Conflicts, and Peace Building Mechanisms Between the Gumuz and Non-Gumuz Communities (1961-1974)

Abstract

Scholars believe that there is difficulty of getting a clear definition for ethnicity due to the haziness of the objective and subjective criteria involved in the determination of members of the group. Usually, ethnicity shows grouping based on primordial ties like origin, language, culture, history, territory etc which are based on objectively determined factors. A person who does not fulfill these factors but who based on his subjective interests demands to be identified with a particular ethnic group may face problems if the group does not accept him. And inability to get a clear definition of ethnicity has even led to a tendency of avoidance approach to the search for definition (Hizkias, 2001: 110).The Gumuz of Matakal is renowned for their traditional conflict management institutions that play important role in harmonizing their relations with the neighboring “ethnic” group such as the Amhara, Agew and Oromo. However, ironically, spirals of conflicts that have continued to rent the region’s peace and stability in general and Mandura and Dibaţe Waradas of Matakal Zone in particular. These conflicts differ in their causes, nature, intensity, frequency; yet the peculiarities are often glossed over and depicted as typical inter ethnic conflicts between the highlanders or “settlers” on one side and the “indigenous “people on the other.

Keywords: Biography, Banditry life, Patriotic feeling, Resistance