Embracing the Spirit of the Palaver Tree
By Ms. Maureen Obare
In many of our African communities, disputes and important discussions were settled under a large tree, often referred to as the “Palaver Tree.” This tree has been serving as a natural meeting place where elders, community members, and leaders gather to address conflicts, make decisions, or share knowledge. The shade of the tree provides a space for open dialogue, fostering a sense of unity, respect, and patience.
Hekima Institute of Peace Studies and International Relations (HIPSIR) was our palaver tree. A fitting metaphor for the week-long training that brought together the proposed Hekima University (PHU) team and African Inter-Party Dialogue Network (AIDPD), with participants from South Sudan from 2nd to 6th, September 2024. This collaborative effort between PHU, AIDPD, and the South Sudanese delegation was focused on strengthening networks, building the capacity of our personnel, and fostering leadership. It is a mission we are dedicated to both achieving and passing on to others, while also establishing PHU as a recognized name in the region. The AIDPD team facilitated the training, where we learned the delicate arts of diplomacy, negotiation, and mediation.
As my colleague Francis Ogutu and I took our place amongst participants, we realized we were not just learning skills; we were embodying the essence of the Palaver Tree itself. What began as a week of training soon turned into a transformative journey. The trainers emphasized that diplomacy is about creating a safe, respectful environment where every voice matters, an essential first step in any meaningful dialogue. We were a diverse group, each contributing unique stories and perspectives that brought us together in our shared journey to strengthen our conflict resolution skills in both our workplaces and daily lives. As I listened to my peers share their experiences, a deep sense of understanding blossomed among us, much like the roots of a tree anchoring us in a common purpose, forming a solid foundation for our journey ahead.
Exploring negotiation as the roots of the Palaver Tree was enlightening, revealing how strong and supportive roots are essential for effective negotiation. We learned that successful negotiation involves digging deep to uncover the underlying issues, much like roots absorb nutrients from the soil. This perspective prompted me to reflect on past conflicts in my life, highlighting the importance of empathy and a commitment to finding mutually beneficial solutions.
Mediation, which I came to appreciate as the branches of the tree, connected us all, reaching out to touch various perspectives. Our trainers guided us to become skilled mediators, helping others find common ground and pathways to understanding. I realized that, just like the branches, our roles could extend beyond individual conflicts to nurture relationships across communities.
By the end of the training, my colleague and I, felt empowered, and equipped with the tools to foster a culture of peace. Just as the Palaver Tree stands tall with its shade, roots, and branches, we understood how diplomacy, negotiation, and mediation could transform conflicts into opportunities for growth. This experience taught us that whenever disputes arise, we can return to our own “palaver tree,” ready to engage in constructive dialogue and embrace the legacy of unity and understanding it represents. The tree, a symbol of unity in many African communities, served as a fitting backdrop for our discussions on diplomacy, negotiation, and mediation.
The PHU team was represented by Dr. Odomaro Mubangizi, SJ, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic and Student Affairs, along with Francis Ogutu and Maureen Obare.
