Local civil society organizations and peacebuilding initiatives in Uganda: a case study of Rwenzori forum for peace and justice

Abstract

The study examined the contribution of local civil society organizations (LCSOs) in local-level peacebuilding in Bundibugyo District, Rwenzori Sub Region in Uganda. With the guidance of the conflict transformation theory and human needs theory of peacebuilding, an examination of the approaches employed by local civil society organizations in peacebuilding, the relationship between local civil society organizations and other actors in peacebuilding, and the challenges faced by local civil society organizations in peacebuilding initiatives was conducted. Data collection was based on a case study research design in which in-depth interviews, observations, and reviews of documents were conducted. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis. The study established active peace initiatives and efforts to manage conflicts. LCSOs had created avenues to manage hostilities by spearheading unity and reconciliation, trauma healing, research, building a culture of peace, economic and social rehabilitation, and advocacy for justice. The state-civil society relationship was found to be modest and improving, though sometimes characterized by suspicion, a lack of proper channels of communication, and reliance on ad hoc or personal contacts. The study also highlights that the government's inability or unwillingness to allow full local civil society participation in governance and advocacy issues will continue to threaten the country’s pursuit of transparency and the fulfillment of national peace-building objectives. Thus, the study recommends the need for a more rigorous and systematic analysis of LCSOs and their role as the region moves through a series of transitions, the need for longer-term financial support to LCSOs to create better incentives for capacity development, the need to strengthen forums for LCSOs-government communication and coordination, as well as an empirical assessment on the various approaches by LCSOs to help guide peacebuilding efforts