The Origins of Ethnic Conflict in Africa

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Ethnic violence in Africa is often mischaracterized as arising from ancient hatreds or resource competition. Tsega Etefa examines conflicts in Darfur, Western Oromia, and the Tana Delta to reveal that these disputes stem from political issues rather than ethnic divisions. He highlights the historical coexistence of diverse communities and argues that such conflicts are fueled by non-inclusive political systems, resource monopolization, and the exploitation of ethnic identities for political advantage, all exacerbated by the absence of democratic avenues for addressing grievances.