<p>The violent conflict in the Afar Regional State of Ethiopia has detrimentally impacted the pastoralist's livelihood, resulting in a humanitarian crisis and limited access to resources. This study analyzes conflicts over natural resources in the cluster areas of the low land livelihood resilience project (LLRP) in the region. Primary and secondary data were utilized, with data was collected through tools such as In-depth and key informant interviews, focus group discussions, observations, and document reviews. Purposive sampling was used to select the sampling units. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data. Factors such as drought, resource appropriation, livestock raiding, proliferation of small arms, and smuggling were identified as contemporary causes and triggers of conflict. While customary institutions were recognized as preferred and effective mechanisms for resolving intra-clan conflicts, challenges arise in their effectiveness for inter-ethnic disputes due to their diverse and complex nature. Prioritizing peace as a core agenda and establishing inclusive, representative, and transparent conflict resolution mechanisms are essential.</p>