The traditional methods of conflict transformation in Africa: The case of Gacaca Courts in Rwanda

Abstract

The study was conducted to assess effectiveness of traditional methods in conflict transformation in Africa. This came as a response to the need for African solutions to African problems. The study analysed the Gacaca courts in Rwanda aiming at establishing the link between the traditional methods of conflict transformation and the modern ones which include the use of formal courts and international tribunals among others. The main objective of this study was to highlight factors which pushed the establishment of the Gacaca courts in Rwanda. The other objective was to examine the role of the Gacaca courts and evaluate the weaknesses of the Gacaca courts in the whole process of conflict transformation. This study is important because it puts more emphasis on traditional ways of transforming conflicts which would result into the building of peace and harmony within the framework of an African perspective. The study employed desk review as a secondary data collection method. Findings suggest that the courts helped to punish directly the perpetrators of the genocide and to a great extent eliminated retaliation. The courts served as a healing mechanism from the grassroots balancing justice, truth, love and peace. The study concluded that the traditional methods of conflict transformation help to build sustainable peace in the society. The study recommends that there is a need for diversifying different mechanisms of the similar type to deal with African problems.