Ideological Praxis at Awra Amba: implications for the development of the region

Awra Amba is a small community living in the Southern Gonder, at a distance of 73 kilometers from the city of Bahir Dar. The aim of this study is therefore to look into the ideological praxis among the Awra Amba community. Specifically, it attempts to describe and profile the ideological praxis of the community and its unique features. To achieve this objective, direct observation, focus group discussion and interview with key informants is used along with consultation of secondary sources. Findings of the study show that Awra Amba is a community with strong faith in the existence of the Omnipotent without providing any name such as God or Allah. It is a community of faith without religion. Members of the community face challenges to sustain communal life and adhere to their ideology among others. The author, therefore, recommends flexibility of the community on various ideals, use of Awra Amba as a model to influence the working traditions of neighbouring communities, and further research on socio-cultural sustainability and dwellers health and safety.