This article deals with Gurraacha institution, which is very important in inter-ethnic peace building and resolving conflict among people of south-central Ethiopia. This institution was named after the Oromo term ‘Gurraacha’ (literally meaning black) to indicate its power in inter-ethnic peace building and conflict resolution. It is one element of Oromo Gadaa system which was established time immemorial to sustain peace between Oromo and non-Oromo neighboring ethnic groups. The data for this study was collected through interview, observation and focus group discussions in 2014 and 2015. As revealed by this study, Gurraacha institution is a guarantee for sustaining peace among people of south-central Ethiopia by managing conflict over boundary, grazing land, looting of cattle and water points. Overall, the study concluded that Gurraacha institution has real significance in inter-ethnic peace-building, sustaining social harmony and inter-ethnic conflict resolution. In Gurraacha institution, people rebuild lost peace and order of Waaqa (God) by performing purification rituals. There is no corruption in Gurraacha institution since all activities are undertaken according to Waaqa’s law and order. There is no false oath in this institution because such act is believed to have negative consequences. The oath of Gurraacha institution which are made during reconciliation process transcend generations. This institution is the model of conflict transformation which is hardly found in today’s world. Therefore, using this indigenous institution for future policy formulation in the country as inter-ethnic peace building and conflict resolution model is important for the realization of sustainable peace and development.

This article aimed at investigating Wijjoo, an indigenous socio economic and political institution of Oromo women. Qualitative research methodology was employed in both data collection and analysis. Accordingly, data was collected through interview and focus group discussions from actual social context in 2014. This study has shown that Wijjoo is an exclusive assembly of Oromo women on which social, economic and political problems are discussed. Any injustice action against women is presented and further measures against such bigotry planned on its gathering. Butter which is considered as women property of women in Oromo culture also collected on Wijjoo meeting. The collected butter used by women's for different purposes like household consumption, for marriage ceremony and other cultural rituals. Passing through different steps, Wijjoo gathering is concluded by smearing butter as a symbol of wetness, fertility and prosperity of human beings and cattle.Overall, the study concluded that Wijjoo plays a prominent role in ensuring the empowerment and autonomy of Oromo women as well as in nurturing their political, social and economic status. Therefore, recognizing and using this indigenous institution is vital in future policy formulation in the country for the fact that gender issues are central to the realization of sustainable development.