In April 2025, the Organization for Sustainable Development and Africa (OSDA) participated in a pivotal peace initiative in Boqolmayo district, Liban Zone, Ethiopia. This gathering brought together political leaders, elders, youth, women, and persons with disabilities to address the longstanding Garre-Degodia conflict, notably intensified by the August 2024 violence that resulted in 16 fatalities.
Key objectives included briefing new leadership on the conflict’s history, identifying zone-specific challenges, gathering local insights for resolution approaches, and aligning leadership priorities with the broader peace process. Discussions delved into critical factors such as disputes over grazing lands exacerbated by drought, contested administrative boundaries, and the political exploitation of ethnic tensions.
The meetings culminated in several resolutions:
- A commitment from the Degodia community and Liban administration to support all peace-building initiatives aimed at preventing community conflict between the Garre and Degodia communities.
- Organization of a joint meeting between administrative leaders, traditional leaders (including Wabar and Sultan), and other community stakeholders from both Liban and Dawa zones.
- Convening a high-level regional meeting in Jigjiga involving leadership from Liban and Dawa zones, as well as Mandera County, to address issues in the Liban-Dawa-Mandera triangle.
- Organization of a joint Degodia and Garre Ulumas peace caravan to visit affected areas for peace sensitization and preaching.
- Urgent resolution of outstanding issues, including blood compensation and the return of all stolen properties between the communities.
- Enhanced communication and coordination on peace-building and community integration, specifically between the woredas of Filitu and Lahey administration, focusing on security early warning and response mechanisms.
This initiative underscores OSDA’s commitment to fostering sustainable peace through inclusive dialogue and collaborative efforts.
