Conflict Resolution Methods in Traditional Tswana Society Versus Methods in Contemporary Botswana: Lessons Learned and the Way Forward

Conflict is part of human interactions at various levels. Therefore, it must be managed well for people to continue living together harmoniously. If conflict is not managed well, it can have far-reaching consequences for the well-being of people both in the short and long run. The purpose of this chapter is to analyze conflict resolution methods in traditional Tswana society as well as in contemporary Botswana. The chapter uses existing literature as well as the authors’ vast experiences of providing counseling to a wide range of people in Botswana. On one hand, the paper notes that conflict resolution methods in traditional Tswana society focused more on reconciliation, promotion of consensus, and enactment of order in society. On the other hand, contemporary ways of resolving conflict in Botswana tend to put emphasis on the judicial system, human rights, and the promotion of justice. As such, the chapter further highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the methods as well as implications for practice, policy, and research.