Xiinxala Ergaa Afwalaloo geerarsa Siyaasaa Oromoo Jaawwii Maccaa: Geerarsa Daboo Ija Yaadiddama Haalawaatiin

Abstract

Abstract  
The objective of this research is to analyze the major themes embedded in Oromo political war songs 
(Geerarsa) of the Jawwi Macha Oromo. The research focused on the objective since the culture of 
warsongGeerarsa) is diminishing while the knowledge embedded in it is profound that needs to be 
elevated and preserved through written form. The research employed qualitative methodology with 
descriptive analysis approach. The research used primary source of data  collected from thirteen men 
and two women; a total of fifteen people from Adi Leqa Tullu Cali kebele in Jimma Ganati district, Horo 
Guduru Wollega Zone. Data are collected through interview, observation and focus group discussion. 
The interviewees were selected purposively from the area; while informants were selected using 
snowball sampling. Several findings were reached by analysing collected data. The first among them 
shows the Jawwi Macha Oromo, during the time they were administrated by the Gadaa system, 
possessed strong unity and power leading them to victory over external enemies/attacks. It also shows 
even after the Gadaa system weakened, they were ruled by kings originating from within the Jawwi 
lineage, lacking a collective goal, they lost the unity and strength they once had and they were defeated 
by Takle Hayimanot of Gojjam through deception. Because, Jaawwii kings who had power fought wars 
to expand their territorial administration, while those who lacked power fought to defend their 
territories. From the analysis Takile Haaymaanot, the king of Gojjam, repeatedly fought with Abiishee 
and was defeated; then, by allying with weaker Jaawwii kings such as Qadida Wannabe and Sorii Gala, 
he deceived the heroes of Jawwi using peaceful names and thus defeated Abishee Garba. This analysis 
concludes the tradition of elders' mediation (jaarsummaa) is originally for resolving disputes and 
problems within Oromo society not with outsiders/enemies. Furthermore, after eliminating the Jawwi 
kings, Takile Haaymaanot distributed the land of the Jawwi forefathers to his followers as 'siisoo' 
(gifts/rewards) and consolidated his power. Later on the Jaawwii people fought and reclaimed their land 
from outsiders during the Derg regime. In the current administration, the farmers' land is being taken 
under the name of "Investment" by the wealthy, and while the name has changed, it is understood as that 
of the land-grabbers, and such practices must stop.  In addition, the analysis of the research data 
demonstrates that the Jawwii Macha Oromo express strong aspirations and demands for national self
determination, self-governance of their homeland, access to modern education, ownership and control 
over their land and resources, and the desire to live in peace and stability 
Key Words: Thematic Analysis, Oromo Political War Song,  Jawwi Macha of Oromo, Contextual Theory