Essentially, indigenous peacebuilding mechanisms are not adversarial. Rather, they involve the
reconciliation of the parties to end conflict entirely by addressing the structural causes of the
conflict. Castro and Ettenger (1996) emphasize this view by saying that indigenous ways of
building peace are not merely about adjudication of who is right or wrong, but it is about the
transformation of conflict in which both parties are satisfied and willing to “let go their pain and
forgive each other”. Thus, indigenous peacebuilding is about admitting fault, showing remorse,
loving one another, and valuing the lives of others for the purpose of ensuring peaceful coexistence.
Additionally, Swindler (1992) argue that good relationships protect and promote human
life, whereas evil is that which destroys or alters human existence. Hence, life is of good value in
traditional African societies and expresses itself in respect for humanity (Abiodum, 2000). The
practice of indigenous peacebuilding including Ubuntu is thus more sustainable, acceptable and