Preference for Traditional Institutions: Preventing Escalation of Conflicts?

ABSTRACT The literature shows that many Africans prefer going to traditional institutions when a conflict arises. On the question “why the preference for traditional institutions” fostering peace seems the acceptable and dominant version of all for preferring traditional institutions over state institutions. However, literature does not neatly answer the elements of peace that these traditional institutions are bring about. Taking Gereb traditional institutions this article found out that the Gerebs are preventing conflicts before its escalation. Particularly, they are preventing revenge in a community where the culture of honor and shame has paramount importance to coexist socially.