This article is an analysis and synthesis of the outcome of our efforts to integrate reflective problem-solving and mindfulness to promote organizational adaptation toward conflict-sensitive approach to managing and resolving land-related conflicts. The purpose of the article is 2-fold. The first part of the article describes the methodological and epistemological processes we followed to engage the candidates in reflective problem-solving and mindfulness. The second part of the article analyses the participants’ reflections on the meanings they had drawn from the thinking and learning processes. The article draws on transformative learning principles, principles of situated experiential learning, the notion of interactive problem-solving and social–psychological approach to conflict analysis, resolution, and negotiation. All of these principles and approaches emphasize the empowerment of learners and practitioners as agents of social transformation. At the end, the article presents the implications of our findings for future improvements.

This study was conducted on the roles of the council of elders in Gumma customary institution of con lict resolution in the Meiso district of northeastern Oromia regional administration. The main objective was to examine the roles of the council of elders in Gumma customary mechanisms of peace-making with a prime focus on informal indigenous structures. An attempt was made to assess the roles of the council of elders in Gumma customary institution in addressing the political and socioeconomic arena, the organisational governance structure of the Gumma system, how it functions and also assesses its judicial procedures in the process of con lict resolution. The paper found out that the Gumma customary institution is most effective and ef icient for inter-intra clan con licts than inter-ethnic con licts. The processes of Gumma in addressing con licts involve a series of ritual practices that aims to reintegrate the unity of the community which was broken down and fractured due to past atrocities. People are obedient to this customary system. As a result of this, people seem keen not to protract hostilities that may eventually divide the community members. It is through their elders and community leaders that the important issues pertinent to the unity and social stability will be addressed. The Meiso area Oromo clans have the council of elders (Menguddo) through which inter-clan con licts are sorted out and thoroughly addressed. The local assemblies function as customary courts whose rules and regulations derive from shared norms and mutually binding value systems. The paper concludes that while the customary system is an ef icient means of dealing with con licts in the study area, an integration of the customary and modern systems is needed for sustainable peace and development in the region.