Conflict resolution in Africa : a focus on Umuada (Daughters) in Ahiazu-Mbaise, Nigeria

Abstract

African culture is mostly male-dominated and that has affected the process of conflict resolution because men are often the architects of conflict in the continent. Unfortunately, when these conflicts erupts in different parts of Africa, women, girls and children are often on the receiving end. This paper is centered on the role of Umuada (daughters of the land) in conflict resolution amongst the people of Ahiazu Mbaise, Nigeria. It showed that these women are consulted in resolving domestic conflicts, land contest, issues of murder as well as other forms of intra-communal crisis. The research, which adopted qualitative methodology also uncovered some problems the Umuada faced in their quest to resolve conflict in Ahiazu Mbaise, Nigeria. The researchers engaged in oral interviews as well as focus group discussions and observations of the activities of Umuada themselves, while discussing with other actors in the community to develop this work. Finally, the paper reveals that the...