Factors affecting women＇s participation in indigenous conflict resolution in Issa and Gurgura Clans of Somali,Eastern Ethiopia

This article tries to explore the factors affecting women＇s participation in indigenous conflict resolution among the Issa and Gurgura clans of Somali ethnic group. It also tries to explore the system of conflict resolution among the Issa and Gurgura clans and women＇s representation in the system. It assesses the role of women in the formation of social capital through marriage and blood relations between the different clans. Women are the primary agent in the formation of social capital between clans or ethnic groups. The paper focuses on some of the important elements of the socio-cultural settings of the study community that are in one way or another related to conflict and indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms. It also examines the positive aspects of marriage practices in the formation of social capital which strengthens friendship and unity instead of enmity.