Christian-Muslim Dialogue for Sustainable Peace and Development in the Oromia Region Ethiopia from 1991-2022
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Date
2022-10-11
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Tangaza University College
Abstract
This study set out to explore the role of Christian-Muslim dialogue in enhancing sustainable
peace and development in the Oromia region in Ethiopia. In relation to the knowledge gap,
researchers had not critically and empirically explored the issue of Christian-Muslim dialogue
to find out how dialogue can enhance sustainable peace and development from the Ethiopian
Christian perspective. The following objectives were set for the study: to analyse the historical
Christian-Muslim relationship in the Oromia region of Ethiopia; to examine the importance of
the religious values enshrined in Christianity and Islam for enhancing constructive dialogue in
Oromia, Ethiopia, and to assess the impact of the Christian-Muslim dialogue on sustainable
peace and development in Oromia, Ethiopia. The research used phenomenological design
among the qualitative research methods to reach the participants' salient perspectives. The
research utilized an integrated theoretical framework: Intergroup Threat Theory and Critical
Social Theory. From Nairobi, the research was carried out online in Ethiopia, particularly in
Addis Ababa. It used the snowball sampling technique. There were 23 individual key
informants and five focus group discussions with five participants in each focus group; thus,
the number added totalled 43 participants. The study also utilised secondary data. The data was
analysed using narrative data analysis and thematic data analysis. The study came up with the
following findings: the history of peaceful coexistence has remained stronger than the conflicts.
Hence the religious values of compassion, love, peace, reconciliation and mutual respect
emanating from both religions are strong instruments of dialogue and can enhance sustainable
peace and development. The theological reflection section highlighted this aspect from a social
transformation perspective. It also emerged that Christian-Muslim dialogue enhances
collaboration, mutual respect and working for common purposes. These are geared towards
addressing historical injustices and eradicating poverty. They take the road map with economic,
political, and social inclusivity, justice, and good governance. In addition, the study found that
the Muslim and Christian dialogue alone is insufficient to ensure sustainable peace and
development, necessitating the government and Abba Gada, the traditional actors need to be
included. The study’s recommendation is crucial for social policy transformation and building
a more just, inclusive, peaceful, prosperous Oromia and Ethiopia
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Keywords
Christian-Muslim Dialogue for Sustainable, Peace and Development in the Oromia Region Ethiopia from 1991-2022