Counselling and reconciliation practices among the Oromo community

Abstract The topics of counselling and reconciliation seem controversial in developing countries because of their intrigued relationship. Likewise, the goal and processes are in question across cultures. In this study, qualitative research approach employing a case study method was carried out with deliberately selected elder counsellors in the Oromo community. Data were gathered using interviews and observations in the field. The results indicated that reconciliation is concurrently practised with counselling, which is the most important instrument to manage differences and to calm everyone involved. It serves to maintain peace and stability between conflicting groups and kinship; saves lives and prevents destruction of property; assists in progressing community rules and regulations; and supports family challenges. The research also identified that processes, tools of operation and time to conduct vary between communities. In conclusion, the goal of counselling and reconciliation is to retain peace and stability through thorough discussion, self‐evaluation and redeeming processes. Equally, pre‐ and post‐counselling sessions in reconciliation are useful approaches cohesive with reality and truth‐seeking behaviours to settle disputes in the community.