Prospecting the Roles and Changing Aspects of Indigenous Knowledge as Social Capital in Conflict Resolutions of South Wollo Zone: The Case of Tehuledere Woreda

Abstract

The main objective of this research is to prospect the roles and changing aspects of indigenous knowledge as social capital in conflict resolutions of south wollo zone: the case of tehuledere woreda. The research design and approach of this study is a cross sectional design with a mixed research approach, where Survey, and in-depth interview were the primary sources of required data. The quantitative data was collected from 189 household respondents in the selected three kebele districts, namely: Ketie, Weldelulo, and Gobeya by using semi structured survey questionnaire. On the other hand, the qualitative data was collected from in-depth interviews with seven local elders, religious leaders and influential community members, continuing until data is saturated. The findings of this research indicated that land disputes emerged as the predominant source of conflict (51.9%), followed by property related disputes (24.3%) and family related issues (23.8%). The study emphasizes the significant reliance on respected elders and religious leaders in conflict mediation, emphasizing practices such as Shimgilina as central to community cohesion. However, the research also reveals a trend among younger generations towards formal legal systems, posing challenges for the preservation of traditional conflict resolution methods. The research highlights the urgent need for documenting and codifying indigenous knowledge, which is essential for enhancing its relevance and effectiveness in contemporary conflict management. Thereby contributing to socio-economic development South Wollo Zone, Tehuledere wereda.