The Role of Effective Communication in Resolving Conflict: The Case of Kebri Dehar Town Municipality, Korhay Zone, Somali Regzional Satate, Ethiopia

Abstract

Effective communication is a crucial element in our lives and it is the base  for the organizational objective achievement. Moreover, as it is known quality of communication has a direct impact on the quality of relationship. This is why effective communication is crucial. The general objective of this study is to assess the role of effective communication in conflict resolution process in Kebri Dehar municipality. Both primary and secondary data were obtained and used from top manager and non-managerial employees of municipality by interview and questionnaire methods of data collection. The secondary data was collected by reviewing records, journals and brochures of the municipality.The researcher has used the stratified sampling technique that is a good way to give equal chance for all departmental employees who had different responses. To analyze the findings of the study and the collected data qualitative analysis method was used. Based on the findings of the study, work over load, communication gap to resolve conflict, less attention given by management for discussion, less response of management for employees’ grievances, less contribution of communication on conflict resolution process, and difference in attitude towards communication were the major problems that affect communication not to achieve its goal (conflict resolution). Finally, the student researcher recommended that management should understand the source of conflict, stimulate functional conflict, and prevent dysfunctional conflict, giving attention for discussion by management, sufficient response of management for employees’ grievance, using effective communication to resolve conflict and encouraging employees’ positive attitude of communication to resolve conflict can be solutions to resolve the above-mentioned problems.

Keywords:Effective communication, Conflictmanagement, information, messages, opportunity, ability, motivation

DOI: 10.7176/NMMC/96-02

Publication date:May 31^st 2021