An Investigation on the Consequences of Mal-traditional Practices: The Case of Indigenous People in State of Benishangul Gumuz

Abstract

In today's Ethiopia where challenges on  development is made by indigenous people in regions, State of Benishangul Gumuz region is extending its effort towards reaching excellence in all aspects including health and societal matters. As part of the country's effort, Benishangul Gumuz region in general and Assosa University in particular carries out various studies based on scientific plans for scaling up its achievements constantly. However, Mal-traditional practices (MTP's)–Festival Ceremony, marriage related practices (early marriage, Abduction marriage, Bride wealth payment and inheritance marriage), domestic violence and skin cutting) are the most prevalence and challenge phenomena among indigenous people of the region. Thus, this study was aimed at assessing on the effects of mal-traditional practices among indigenous people in State of Benishangul-Gumuz Region.  In doing so, the study particularly attempted to examine the level (prevalence) and impact of these mal-traditional practices on socio-economic and health conditions of indigenous people in study areas. To identify the factors hindering government officials in eliminating mal-traditional practices among the indigenous people in the region. The study was designed to be survey where quantitative and qualitative data were gathered through questionnaire. The questionnaire consists of both open-ended and close-ended items. Focus group discussions was made on the indigenous people to collect relevant information. Besides to these, an interview was made with experts and political appointees. Hence, 93 people were involved in the study in filling the questionnaire, 20 people interviewed and 90 people in FGD. Therefore, 203 people were totally the target groups of the study. Results of the study indicated that, the society had knowledge about the prevalence of harmful traditional practices. In the same manner, the society held a kind of favorable practice against MTP's although there remained many people in the society who still ignored and wanted to see their co-existence with the MTP's. As far as practice is concerned, it was found out that MTP's was exercised in their respective areas among indigenous communities, by a large number of people, for diverse reasons(social, economic, cultural cases). Eventually, based on the data interpreted and analyzed, conclusions are made, and recommendations are forwarded.

Keywords:Mal-traditional practices (MTP's), prevalence, Practices, marriages, festivities, State of Benishangul Gumuz region.

DOI: 10.7176/JCSD/47-01

Publication date: April 30^th 2019