The article aims to determine the role of water scarcity in conflicts in Ethiopia. The author analyzes factors of water scarcity and the peculiarities of conflict localization in Ethiopia combining a quantitative and qualitative approach. The first approach is based on databases and reports on water resources, and conflicts in Ethiopia. The Second derives from the materials collected during a field study in the South Omo Zone, Hamar Woreda, in 2024. The obtained results show that water scarcity is increasing throughout Ethiopia, and water resources are distributed unevenly geographically and seasonally. The latter is particularly true for the southern and eastern regions especially during the dry season, and mountain regions. The dry months are characterized by increased conflict, especially in Afar, Benishangul-Gumuz, Dire Dawa, Oromiya, Southwestern Ethiopia region and Somali. This contradict the conclusions of McGuirk and Nunn, who claim that conflicts in Africa occur mostly during the rainy season. Five active ethnic conflicts related to water scarcity have been identified in the South Omo Zone, which are not recorded in the ACLED database. These conflicts take place year-round along ethnic borders, although their nature differs seasonally. Dry season conflicts are sporadic and associated with pastoralists' migration in search of water and pasture. In the rainy season, conflicts are more likely to be planned actions aiming to expand the influence zone or settling blood feuds. During drought, pastoral communities' rely on government and NGO assistance, making them less vulnerable to attacks. The author provides recommendations to mitigate the consequences of water scarcity that can be incorporated into the National Water Strategy. These recommendations fall into three categories: addressing the root causes of water conflicts; preventing the consequences of increased water consumption; and involving local communities in addressing these issues.