An Ethnographic Study of Changes and Continuities in Borana Gadaa system since (1885): case of Arero and Dubluk districts, Borana Zone, Oromia National Regional State, Ethiopia

Abstract This thesis draws attention to the changes and continuities in Borana gadaa system. The main objective of this study is to understand the changes and continuities in Borana Gadaa system, the influences of external and internal changes the Borana Gadaa system, and how customary institutions respond to these influences. Traditionally, the Oromo believed in a supreme deity, Waaqa (God) but eventually most of them were converted to Christianity and Islam without necessarily giving up Waqeffanna cultural and ritual practices since it is similar to both as a monotheistic religion. On this study, I was used qualitative approach that revision extensive use of primary and secondary sources. The primary data was generated through interviews, observations, and focus group discussions. While secondary data was collected from Borana culture and tourism office. The accuracy of the information from the archives materials I was used to referring different source like journal, articles, books and internets. The study was conducted in Borana Zone, Arero and Dubluk districts. The site was selected purposively because two districts is a place where the Gadaa system is functioning relatively well. To accomplish the objective of the study qualitative method of data analysis was applied since it facilitates detailed study of the social phenomenon based on feelings, experiences, motives, and behaviors of targeted group’s and their attitudes. The findings of this research indicate that the Borana Gadaa system reflects changes as well as continuity of the community way of life. The thesis concludes that the main factors for changes and continuities of Borana Gadaa system are due to diverse external and internal pressures.