THE ROLE OF NGOS IN PEACEBUILDING IN PASTORALIST AND AGRO-PASTORALIST COMMUNITY OF NYANGATOM, HAMMER, AND DASSANECH COMMUNITY OF SOUTH OMO, ETHIOPIA

Abstract

The South OMO zone is conflict-ridden, and efforts are being made to build Peace. This paper indicated that nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) play great roles in peacebuilding and encouraging grassroots peacebuilding initiatives. This study examines the role of NGOs in promoting peacebuilding among Hammer, Dassanech and Nyangatom communities in the south Omo zone using a case study research design to get the experience and beliefs of nongovernmental organizations who engaged in peacebuilding activities to reduce destructive or violent conflicts in the study area. The conflict affected the communities' harmonious relationships and traumatized the residents. NGOs have contributed to peacebuilding activities such as promoting conflict resolution and psycho-social healing through peace education and by participating in conflict reduction programs. The study recommended that NGOs develop conflict intervention mechanisms for peacebuilding, such as participating in economic empowerment and livelihood diversification programmes. In addition, the government peace apparatus should work with Nongovernmental organizations at the local level to take action on the spoiler of Peace.