Women's participation in peace building processes: a case of Buganda Kingdom

Abstract

This study examined women’s participation in peace building processes in Buganda Kingdom. It explored the roles played by women in peace building processes, the strategies employed and the challenges faced by women in peace building processes in Buganda Kingdom. A feminist gender analysis theory was used because of it is ability explore how the environment is a powerful tool for shaping everyday power dynamics of human interactions, whether in the private or public arena. The study adopted a descriptive research design which included both survey and key informant methods. Data was collected from 159 respondents in Kyaddondo County. Analysis was done using SPSS for quantitative and thematic approach for qualitative data. Findings showed that women in Buganda Kingdom processes possess skills that can be further cultivated . who are engaged in peace building Many women exhibit strengths in consensus building, by being inclusive, attentive, and moderate in times of conflict the challenges faced by women as they engaged in peace building processes, . Regarding despite some women’s peace activism, many other women continue to live divisive, antagonistic, sectarian lives . Therefore, without an understanding of the continuities of violence across levels and spaces, lack of security will prevail. The study concludes that a clear and critical understanding of these interrelations can be an important step towards change. The study therefore recommends that women activists who work for peace and gender equality in Buganda Kingdom and elsewhere may find the strength to challenge the patterns of exclusion, that emerge in our society. This may not just be context-specific, but as part of wider gendered hierarchies, ultimately opening the way for transformations towards equal power and lasting peace.