The Quest for Development Transformation in Northern Uganda
Loading...
Date
2015
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Chemchemi International Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences
Abstract
This paper discusses the dynamics of development agencies’ support to conflict-affected northern Uganda
in the period between 2006 and 2012, and its implications for post-conflict recovery and development.
The study utilizes a mainly qualitative approach incorporating in-depth interviews with key informants,
focus group discussions and secondary data review. Data was analyzed thematically using template
analysis methods. Findings show that, at the height of the northern Uganda conflict between the year
2001 and 2006, the region was a beehive of ‘development agencies’ activities, with scores of development
agencies supporting the affected communities. These agencies (including the UN agencies, civil society
organizations and even private sector agencies complemented government efforts in the resettlement and
reintegration process for communities affected by the conflict. Yet queries remain. For example, have the
interventions been done right and conceived within the right assumptions? This paper, therefore, analyses
the trends and dynamics of both state and non-state actors’ interventions within northern Uganda,
especially the post-2006 period. It is posited that donor priorities, interests and preferences other than
government and non–state actors’ interventions and situation of the target groups seem to be the driving
force behind programme planning, funding and implementation. This revelation presents important
lessons and experiences to actors and social planners working in the area of post-conflict development
and reconstruction. The main lesson drawn from this study is that government and indigenous agencies
should proactively take the initiative in community rebuilding process and not extensively rely on foreign
donors.
Description
Keywords
Conflict, Post-conflict recovery and development, State, Non-state actors
Citation
Ochen, E. A. (2015). THE QUEST FOR DEVELOPMENT TRANSFORMATION IN NORTHERN UGANDA. Chemchemi International Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, 10(1).