Fostering Sustainable Peace: New Bylaw Implemented Between Afar and Oromo Communities

In a significant step towards reconciliation, a long-awaited bylaw has been developed and implemented among the border-sharing communities of Afar and Oromo, following months of constructive discussions facilitated by RIRA and APDA. In June, 2025, the joint Community Peace Committees successfully drafted this bylaw to enhance indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms and promote lasting peace.

As part of its implementation and actively engage wider community members—particularly youth, herdsmen, and women—the CPC organized meetings in Awash-Fentalle Kebeles, addressing critical peace and reconciliation concerns. A landmark outcome of these discussions was a mutual agreement to forgive past grievances related to livestock losses and lives lost, paving the way for healing of past wounds and ensuring sustainable peace.

Looking ahead, the joint committee plans to visit the Fentalle district for further meetings, bringing herdsmen together at herding sites to announce joint settlement efforts, resource sharing, and collaborative activities. This initiative aims not only to resolve existing conflicts but also to foster sustainable peace between the two communities, creating a brighter future for all involved.