Spaces for Pluralism in Ethnically Sensitive Communities in Uganda: The Case of Kibaale District
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Date
2015-10
Authors
Ssentongo, Jimmy
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Humanistic Studies
Abstract
This qualitative study addresses possibilities for living with
differences in communities which are prone to ethnic conflict. Its
primary empirical focus is on the perceptions of the residents of
Kibaale district in Uganda. An analysis of the problematic history
of the district shows that multilayered factors have been at play.
These factors include identity politics, a rapid increase of new
migrant residents, active ethnic pressure groups, the influence of
local radio broadcasts and cultural contestations. In this social
context, ethnic identities were transformed and inter-ethnic
violence broke out.
A number of pluralism initiatives at different levels were taken to redress the situation. These
initiatives point in two directions: assimilation and pluralism. Assimilative tendencies were
especially noted in intermarriage. Pluralist initiatives include inter-ethnic friendships,
learning each other’s languages, community peace dialogues facilitated by religious bodies
and other civil society organizations (CSOs), sensitization by CSOs and the Government
through mass media, political cooperation across ethnic lines, plural representation of ethnic
groups in the appointment of district positions, splitting political constituencies to create
more space for ethnic representation, and creating a Ministry of Bunyoro (regional) Affairs.
The study shows that these different pluralism initiatives synergistically reinforce each other
in their attempt to improve inter-ethnic relations. However, the sustainability of these
initiatives remains unclear since it is also possible that they could aggravate identity politics
by providing incentives for ethno-territorial claims and contestations of belonging.
Description
Keywords
ETHNICALLY SENSITIVE COMMUNITIES, PLURALISM IN ‘ETHNICALLY SENSITIVE’ COMMUNITIES, SPACES FOR PLURALISM IN ‘ETHNICALLY SENSITIVE’ COMMUNITIES IN UGANDA
Citation
Ssentongo, Jimmy. Spaces for pluralism in ethnically sensitive communities in Uganda. Diss. University for Humanistic Studies, 2015.