Prospects of reducing vulnerability of communities in post disaster resettlement : a case of Bunambutye Camp, Eastern Uganda

Abstract

This study investigated physical and socio-economic vulnerability of communities in post-disaster resettlement with an overall aim of developing prospective interventions for reducing vulnerability through skills development and use hence enhancing livelihoods in post-disaster resettlement. The specific objectives were i) To examine the traits of physical and socio-economic vulnerability of communities in post-disaster resettlement in Bunambutye camp, Eastern Uganda ii) To establish the determinants of seasonal movements as a coping strategy currently being employed by the survivors to reduce vulnerability iii) To determine relevant livelihood skills needed to reduce the vulnerability of communities in post-disaster resettlement in Bunambutye camp, Eastern Uganda. The study used a participatory research methodology, giving participants authority over the agenda and research procedure. It was hypothesized that seasonal movements of survivors from the resettlement were a function of physical rather than socio-economic vulnerability. With a descriptive and interpretive research design, 140 respondents participated in the household survey conducted in December 2022 using the individual Appraisal tool that had both open and closed-ended questions that enabled the study to gather primary data about objective i), ii), iii), and the research hypothesis. Twenty (20) participants participated in mini-Delphi iterative meetings using the Delphi Analysis skills grid tool to determine the relevant livelihood skills needed to reduce vulnerability. This was complemented with key informant interviews, focus group discussions and field walk observations to elicit the necessary data. Utilizing SPSS version 20, univariate graphical and non-graphical exploratory data analysis coupled with content analysis suggest that households are faced with physical and socio-economic vulnerability. The households engage in seasonal movements as a livelihood coping strategy. Dry spells which impacts other livelihoods significantly contributed to the households’ desire to move from the resettlement. Survivors possessed limited livelihood skills thus exposed to socio-economic and livelihood vulnerability. The study recommends implementing vocational training programs and microfinance initiatives to diversify income sources and create employment opportunities. Additionally, constructing more housing units to reduce overcrowding and developing sustainable water management systems such as low-cost irrigation schemes, organic farming techniques and agroforestry will ensure food security, income earnings and long-term sustainability of the resettlement.