Management of Inter-ethnic Conflicts in Uganda: A Case Study of Nabbongo Sub-County

Abstract

Due to the persistence of inter-ethnic conflicts in Uganda, this study examined the policies and mechanisms employed by the Ugandan government to address these conflicts and promote harmony and stability in the country. The study adopted a case study research design, focusing on Nabbongo Sub-County in Bulambuli District, Uganda. Data were collected using mixed methods, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches. Questionnaires containing open-ended and closed-ended questions were used to collect data. Stratified and purposive sampling techniques were employed to select participants, who included rural agro-pastoralists and policymakers.

The findings indicate that, according to government policy, the Ministry of Internal Affairs is responsible for addressing inter-ethnic conflicts and promoting harmony through collaboration with various stakeholders. These include local government agencies, Local Council officials, the police, ethnic authorities, clan members, and families. However, the findings reveal that stakeholder collaboration remains inadequate, with government security agencies, particularly the police and military, often being deployed to manage conflicts, thereby undermining the intended collaborative approach.

The study recommends adherence to the stakeholder collaboration framework envisaged under the decentralisation policy, addressing economic hardships and youth unemployment, and enhancing grassroots community participation in developing sustainable solutions to persistent inter-ethnic conflicts. The findings provide useful insights for the Ministry of Internal Affairs, local government authorities, and community leaders in addressing recurring inter-ethnic conflicts in Uganda.