International Journal of Geopolitics and Governance

African Intellectuals and the Re-Making of Africa: A Post-Colonial Reading of Ayi Kwei Armah’s Fiction

2025-01-13T15:17:04+02:00

Using post-colonial theory, this work has revealed that there are two types of intellectuals in the light of Ayi Kwei Armah’s fiction. The first type of intellectuals consists of these intellectuals simply referred to as parvenus academic. These intellectuals have nothing to offer. They are just concerned with their own interests bringing nothing as a contribution to their people as well as their society. Another type of intellectual defined by Armah is those who pave the way for development. These intellectuals are ready to sacrifice their life for the liberation of their people. They are deemed as torchbearers and work for the welfare of their counterparts. Armah in this perspective invites all Africans to put the common interest at the center of their preoccupations. Armah’s fiction is a call to African intellectuals, sources of corruption, to truly embark on the path of good governance. The methods which have been used are documentary research and data collection from the corpus texts and other internet resources. The study has concluded that there is a need for the redefinition of African intellectuals in terms of their role and responsibility in the safeguarding of the whole continent. For the betterment of the whole continent, it is important to sensitize new political leaders to work for the interests of their counterparts. This new political orientation will make it possible to reduce drastically corruption at all levels of society and move towards sustainable development

The Effect of Public Participation on Implementation of Development Projects in Lamu County, Kenya

2025-01-24T18:20:04+02:00

Institutions and individuals partaking in projects that have an impact on the wider community cannot overlook the power of public participation. The Kenyan constitution also applies this people-centred approach as enshrined in the creation of the National Government constituency development fund and the 47 counties. Key benefits of public participation include the inclusion of diverse perspectives in decision-making and a better understanding of the community’s needs. However, it appears that there is limited literature regarding how meaningful public participation impacts the capacity of a community to work in coordination and sort out its problems. The current study aims to address this gap by assessing the effect of public participation on the implementation of development projects in Lamu County, Kenya. The Ladder of Citizen Participation Theory was adopted in this study. In the study, all managers and staff members from the County Government of Lamu, who were 390 in total, formed the study population. A descriptive research design was employed. Stratified sampling and simple random sampling techniques were applied in the selection of the 196 study participants. The tools of study used were questionnaires and interview guides. Quantitative data from the questionnaires were analysed through descriptive statistical techniques. Further, there was hypothesis testing in quantitative data analysis to establish whether there is a relationship between public participation and project implementation in Lamu County. Specifically, regression analysis was adopted to establish whether there exists any association. Qualitative data from the interview guides were analysed through thematic analysis. The results reveal that public participation has a significant association with project implementation in Lamu County. Moreover, it was established that the public participation process is not effective when tested against evaluation criteria and recommends the establishment of an evaluation criteria that guarantees effective public participation

The Current Conflict in Sudan and the Quest for a Final Solution for the People of Nuba Mountains

2025-02-15T11:22:24+02:00

The current conflict in the Nuba Mountains, which started immediately after the secession of South Sudan in 2011, is a result of the cumulative grievances shared by the people of African descent, generally referred to as people of the marginalized areas in Sudan. The policies pursued by the political elite in Sudan after the country attained its independence from Britain in 1956 were the main causes of the first and second civil wars. The people of the Nuba Mountains joined the Movement (SPLA/M) because of its national agenda, as crafted by the late John Garang in 1983, with the legitimate expectation that through armed struggle they would achieve their freedom. However, the peace processes that resulted in the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) did not address such a desire. This led to the resumption of armed struggle based on the same principles as enshrined in the SPLM’s Manifesto of 1983. But in as much as creating New Sudan as the basis for a final solution would be in conflict with the prevailing system of beliefs in the country there will be a need for an alternative option that would satisfy the desire for freedom of the people of Nuba Mountains. Generally, the purpose of this article is to provide a better understanding of the nature of the current conflict in the Nuba Mountains and how it should be resolved

Navigating Information Landscapes: An Analysis of Online Media on X for Political News in the Era of Mainstream Media Distrust

2025-03-05T09:57:36+02:00

In Nigeria, as in many parts of the world, traditional media outlets continuously give in to the various social media platforms. Against this backdrop, social media platforms, particularly X spaces formerly known as Twitter have emerged as an alternative source of political news and discourse, especially among the youth demographic. This research explores the evolving landscape of information consumption among the Nigerian youth, specifically focusing on their reliance on X and its spaces as a primary source of political news amidst growing media distrust. With a surge in digital platforms providing alternative avenues for news dissemination, this study employs content analysis as a methodological approach to understand the informational content shared within the X Spaces platform. The research aims to investigate the factors driving Nigerian youth towards X Spaces with a focus on X, examining the role it plays in shaping political narratives, fostering civic engagement, and contributing to the formation of public opinion. By employing content analysis, the study seeks to uncover patterns, themes, and sentiments embedded in the discourse within X Spaces, shedding light on the information dynamics that influence political perspectives among the youth demographic. The findings conclude that one of the major reasons the GenZ media are taken over rapidly is due to the fact-checking and investigative role they play in critically examining information published by the traditional media. This over the years has helped build an online presence and credibility as revealed in their algorithm

Context Informing the Adoption of Regional Security Initiatives for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons in East Africa

2025-03-10T11:31:49+02:00

The proliferation of SALWs in the East African region has negatively impacted both national and regional security. Porous and expansive borders, corruption, and instability in the region, commercialization of cattle rustling, weak governments and the presence of ungoverned spaces in the region, have facilitated the proliferation of SALWs in the region. This article presents the findings on the initiatives adopted by Kenya and Uganda, both individually and collaboratively for the control of the proliferation of SALWs in East Africa. The study was guided by the regionalism theory of inter-state cooperation and a descriptive survey design. The sampled respondents totalling 55 were drawn from the security agencies, members of civil societies, foreign relation offices, non-state actors and religious leaders. Instrumentation encompassed questionnaires, focus group discussions and interviews. The findings indicate the context that entails armed robberies, cattle rustling, and conflicts between communities and in urban areas like Nairobi, illegal firearms can be purchased relatively cheaply. Similarly, SALWs are used by various non-state actors, including rebel groups and criminal gangs, which exacerbates instability and hampers peace efforts. This context forms a critical need for comprehensive strategies that address the SALW proliferation, enhance regional collaboration, and improve public awareness to effectively mitigate the associated security threats. The study recommends that the governments of Kenya and Uganda should enhance the recruitment, training, and deployment of sufficient security troops to the Northeast of Uganda and the Northwestern region of Kenya

Women in Kenyan Political Culture in Light of the Ubuntu Spirit

2025-03-24T17:14:54+02:00

This study explores the intersection of women's roles in Kenyan political culture within the framework of the Ubuntu spirit, a philosophy emphasizing community, interconnectedness, and shared humanity. Historically, women in Kenya have been integral to social and political movements, yet their contributions have often been marginalized or underrepresented. This research examines how the Ubuntu spirit, with its core values of collective responsibility and mutual care, has influenced and can further enhance women's participation in politics. The research traces the evolution of women's political involvement from pre-independence activism, where women played key roles in the fight for freedom, to their current participation in governance and decision-making processes. This study uses literary desktop synthesis. It highlights the traditional communal structures in Kenyan society where women's voices were vital in leadership, suggesting that the contemporary political system, often dominated by patriarchal norms, can benefit from reintegrating these Ubuntu-driven values. By fostering a political culture that embodies the principles of Ubuntu, there is potential for a more inclusive, equitable, and participatory political environment for women. Moreover, the study examines the barriers that women face in the political arena, including gender biases, cultural stereotypes, and limited access to resources. It also explores how these challenges can be addressed through the lens of Ubuntu, proposing strategies such as community-driven advocacy, gender-sensitive policy formulation, and the promotion of women-led initiatives. The research underscores the importance of creating spaces where women's voices can be amplified and respected, not just as a matter of gender equality but as a crucial component of a harmonious and just society.

Social Media is the New Front of Shaping Public Opinion in Developing World: Case of July 2024 Gen Z Protests in Kenya

2025-04-14T13:53:11+02:00

The July 2024 Gen Z national protests in Kenya against the Finance Bill 2024/25, ushered in a new digital era and discourse on social media community. Striking was the new feature of shaping public opinion in the developing world, perennially locked in a geographic prison of ideas. The Gen Z protest organization and conduct of dissent strategy that included medical, legal and socio-psychological support for participants, made history of the first modern-time developing society within the Global South hemisphere. This paper examines the new phenomenon looking at the changing times in democratic governance spaces in the developing world enabled by the new digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence capabilities. The postcolonial societies in Africa for over two generations, and 60 years of independence have witnessed massive failures in public policy that is crashing to a halt in the 21st Century. The Gen Z of Kenya, identifying themselves during the protest campaigns as, “Leaderless, tribeless and partyless” births a new resistance movement against generational imposed ethnic politics in Kenya with the potential to proliferate across Sub-Sahara Africa. The study makes profound findings linked to the colonial legacies of foreign control, dependence, manipulations, exploitation and marginalization. The paper recommends changes to political, economic, education, cultural and foreign policies in Kenya to address the contemporary challenges facing the dystopic postcolonial society in Africa for renewed re-orientation and societal growth and development.

Terrorism as a Human Security Threat in the Horn of Africa: A Case Study in Ethiopia

2025-04-24T23:06:43+02:00

This paper explores terrorism as a critical threat to human security in the Horn of Africa, with a particular focus on Ethiopia. Drawing from historical and contemporary contexts, the study illustrates how terrorism not only undermines individual freedoms but also destabilizes communities and societies at large. It analyzes the theoretical frameworks surrounding human security and terrorism, revealing their intricate connections. Notably, the paper highlights Ethiopia's multifaceted counter-terrorism strategies, including the adoption of the Anti-Terrorism Proclamation in 2009, which has been instrumental in addressing the terrorism threat. Despite facing significant human rights criticisms, Ethiopia's approach, marked by military and legislative measures, aims to protect citizens and maintain stability. The conclusions drawn stress the importance of balancing national security initiatives with human rights considerations to ensure the enhancement of human security amidst growing threats

Effects of Conflicts Between Political Leaders and Employees on the Performance of Local Government Authorities: A Survey of Kongwa District Council, Tanzania

2025-05-01T19:00:18+02:00

This study examined the effects of conflict between political leaders and employees on the performance of local government authorities in Tanzania, based on the experience of Kongwa District Council. The study was conducted in 2021, involving the collection of both primary data through interviewing 5 key informants and through questionnaires from 72 respondents-; and secondary data through documentary review. Due to the mixed methods nature of the study, qualitative data were analysed through thematic analysis and quantitative data were summarized using simple descriptive statistics and summarizing the data in frequency tables with the use of Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The findings indicate that there are conflicts between political leaders (councillors) and council staff mainly as a result of improper use of authority (political interference in administrative functions), scarcity of resources and an education gap between councillors and staff. From the study findings, it is evident that the conflicts negatively impact the performance of the council as they lead to low achievement of goals, delays in project implementation, low staff morale and inefficient service provision among others. The study recommends intensive and regular training for the councillors on the laws, rules, regulations and procedures governing the operation of council activities to clearly understand their areas of jurisdiction, which will minimize the prevalence of conflicts in the council

Pragmatically Advancing The Rule of Law and Security in Africa, Paramount for The Successful Implementation of Italy's Piano Mattei (Mattei Plan) on the Continent

2025-06-25T21:54:45+02:00

The objective of this paper underscores the need for the Piano Mattei to have significant focus on advancing the rule of law - eradicating arbitrariness in governance, judicial reforms, security sector reforms, support for Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) legal aid initiatives, encouraging accountability, and tackling the wild spread of politically motivated restiveness in Africa. This is a desktop research that also included direct encounters with two experts on international cooperation between Africa and Europe, as well as information from a conference presentation made in Rome by the researcher. The limited availability of scholarly and credible professional knowledge on the Piano Mattei was a challenge for this research. Considering the above objective for this paper, the following were key findings: The need to train more rule of law and security professionals, as well as provide easy access to such training, even in Italy. The urgency is in making access to justice less political and more concerned with offering equal and affordable services, especially for the common people. Each African state’s remunerations for legal practitioners, the police, and the military personnel should be adequately enhanced. Also, it is necessary for some aspects of the Piano Mattei to be guided by the African Union Agenda 2063 framework; for example, Aspirations 3 and 4 of the Agenda 2063. One of the findings, as Mutua observes, is that, “focus should be placed on the meaning and practical effect of the rule of law and not just talking about its importance or necessity in Africa.”[1] A further key finding, as Mbaku observes is that “for the full operationalization of the rule of law in a country, the laws must not be externally imposed on the people. They must be those that the people understand, respect, and are able and willing to obey.”[2] This paper also found that migration may not actually be the proble but the legal management of migration. Finally, the need to have “adequate background analyses of African challenges and the genuine necessity for equal partnerships between individual African states and the Republic of Italy.”[3] The implication of the above findings is that advancing the rule of law and security in Africa (through judicial reforms, security sector reforms, as well as government’s support for legal aid initiatives of non-governmental organizations), requires a human-centered approach to development cooperation on the continent which seeks to promote the genuine welfare of the people rather than promoting political propagandas.

Drivers of Public Participation of Youths in Development of Water Projects: Evidence from Tiaty Sub-County, Kenya

2025-05-16T13:06:21+02:00

Public participation has remained a significant factor in Kenya's development since the new constitution was enacted in 2010. Still, many challenges are visible regarding the extent to which youths play a part in the creation and execution of water projects, among others. These observations invite development researchers to conduct more studies to understand the drivers of youth involvement in water projects. This study aimed to investigate the drivers of youth participation in the development of water projects in Tiaty Sub-County, Baringo County. This is so because, despite Kenya, and by extension Baringo County Government's well-recognized framework for public involvement, little is known about how it has affected or been applied in youth’s engagement in the water projects in the county. The study was anchored on three theories: Chambers’ Participatory Rural Appraisal; Arnstein’s Ladder of Citizen Participation; and Sen’s Capability Theory Approach. The study used the survey design used and targeted a population of 52,000 youth residents of Tiaty Sub- County, Baringo County. Moreover, the study targeted officers working in Baringo County and, officials of water development projects. Cluster sampling was used to narrow down the region (based on wards) after which systematic sampling helped to pick the final respondents. Simple random sampling was to select the wards from which data was collected. To choose respondents from among the departmental employees and water project officials, stratified sampling was employed based on their roles and positions in governance. A total of 158 observations were included in the analysis, with a model fit showing a significant overall effect (LR chi2(28) = 128.31, p < 0.001) and a pseudo-R-squared value of 0.6145. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of community-based communication strategies and addressing access barriers to improve youth involvement in water development initiatives.

Exploring Tanzania's Diplomatic Landscape: Citizen Perspectives on Foreign Policy Execution, Diplomatic Relations, Trade Agreements, and Aid Initiatives

2025-05-29T20:03:18+02:00

Through an investigation of citizens' perceptions of trade agreements, aid programs, and diplomatic relations, this study aims to determine the extent to which Tanzania has implemented its foreign policy. Based on the necessity of comprehending public opinions, the research adds new perspectives to the corpus of knowledge by using a citizen-centric methodology. The study uses quantitative data to show that citizens are generally not very satisfied with the efficacy of trade agreements, aid initiatives, and diplomatic relations. Results show that in order to promote economic growth and socioeconomic development, foreign policy objectives must be strategically adjusted to match public expectations. The study adds more nuance to the analysis by conducting key informant interviews, which provide professional viewpoints on the difficulties and achievements in Tanzania's foreign policy environment. The study promotes a fair strategy that protects national interests while acknowledging the opportunities and hazards that come with liberal ideals. The study emphasises how crucial it is for foreign policy to continuously adapt and solve issues in order to overcome persistent obstacles to trade and diplomacy. In order to strengthen diplomatic ties, trade agreements, and aid initiatives, recommendations stress the need for open communication, policy realignment, and cautious liberalisation. This will ensure Tanzania's foreign policy is implemented effectively in the ever-changing global environment. In addition to improving our knowledge of Tanzanian foreign policy, this study offers insightful information to help decision-makers facing comparable difficulties in the field of international relations

The Entrenchment of Ethnicity in South Sudan: Analyzing Its Impact

2025-06-18T08:53:31+02:00

This study aimed to explore the role of ethnicity in South Sudan’s socio-political landscape and its influence on nation-building efforts, focusing on three sub-themes: the historical roots of ethnic conflict, the impact of ethnicity on governance, and collective identity amidst political fragmentation. To frame the analysis, the research employed three theoretical frameworks: Ethnic Conflict Theory, which explains how historical grievances and competition over resources escalate into violence; Social Identity Theory, highlighting how group identification influences inter-ethnic relations; and Constructivist Theory, emphasizing how social realities and identities are shaped through discourse and interaction. A qualitative methodology was adopted, incorporating 400 survey respondents, 30 in-depth interviews, and six focus group discussions. Participants were selected through stratified random sampling, ensuring representation across major ethnic groups and demographics, with inclusion criteria requiring participants to be aged 18 or older, residents of South Sudan for at least one year, and willing to provide informed consent. Data analysis involved thematic coding, where transcripts were systematically reviewed to identify recurring patterns related to conflict, identity, and governance. Key findings indicated that ethnicity significantly influences community relations, with 81% of respondents reporting interactions primarily characterized by conflict rooted in longstanding animosities. While ethnicity initially served as a unifying element during the liberation struggle, post-independence dynamics revealed its potential to create divisions, fueling competition for power and resources among dominant ethnic groups. The narratives collected reflected widespread fears, mistrust, and suspicion, illustrating how ethnic identities continue to shape social interactions and political engagement. The study concludes that although ethnic identities can foster a sense of belonging, they often hinder governance and social cohesion, leading to systemic favouritism and marginalization. To promote stability, the research recommends implementing inclusive governance frameworks and national reconciliation initiatives that foster inter-ethnic dialogue, emphasizing the importance of celebrating cultural diversity while fostering a shared national identity for sustainable peace and development

The Role of Leadership Support for Career-Inclusion in Service-Delivery at Level-6 Hospitals in Kenya

2025-06-24T17:40:34+02:00

Work plays a critical role in life satisfaction for employees with disability. Career-inclusion facilitates them in service-delivery through capacity-adjusted deployment, empowerment, and job match. Leadership support for career-inclusion had not been researched and its influence on service-delivery from employees with disability in level-6 hospitals in Kenya, thus this research. The objective was to establish the influence of career-inclusion on service-delivery at level-6 hospitals in Kenya. It was cross-sectional research, using two questionnaires and an observation checklist. The target populations were 229 employees with disability and 229 supervisors sampled by census from five purposively selected hospitals. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 29 and N-Vivo version 15 for quantitative and qualitative data, respectively, and Pearson’s correlation coefficients and ANOVA to test associations and hypotheses, with a cut-off of p-value < 0.05 indicating significance. The response rate for employees with disability was 211 (92.1%) and 196 (85.6%) for supervisors. Career-inclusion contributes 46% (R².460) positive change in service-delivery with an F statistic of 151.472 and a significant p-value of 0.000 < 0.05. being greater than the critical value of 3.909 at a significant p-value of 0.000 <0.05. Thus, the null hypothesis, ‘career-inclusion has no significant influence on service-delivery at level-6 hospitals in Kenya,’ was rejected. A respondent with disability said, “…my deployment was adjusted…capacity initially… I have since been transferred…I am not happy…I have not been promoted for a long time…there is no work-adjusted hours or schedules…some tasks allocated are okay, but others cause…strain…” In conclusion, employees with disability are uniquely talented and have potential that can be exploited through leadership support for career-inclusion, backed by evidence to dissipate misconceptions. Career-inclusion has a positive influence on service delivery from employees with disability. Leaders need to improve career-inclusion by addressing the paucity of timely data, barriers to inclusion, and providing evidence to showcase the contributions of employees with disability and the importance of offering them support. Intentional regular creation of awareness is invaluable.

Community Engagement on Implementation of Standard Gauge Railway Project at Morogoro – Makutupora Segment, Tanzania

2025-07-09T21:53:46+02:00

Community engagement is an important pillar for local governance. The government is responsible for involving people in making decisions that directly affect their own daily lives. In turn, this influences the implementation of decisions made to become easier. The study focused on examining community engagement in the implementation of the SGR project, especially the Lot II from the Morogoro to Makutupora segment. Stakeholders’ theory and Arnstein's theory were used to guide the study. The qualitative approach was used; a sample of 30 respondents was used. The data were collected through the focus group discussion (FGD) method, and content analysis was used to analyse the collected data. The engagement of the community in the SGR project was through the provision of manpower; conducting business activities that benefited people who are working in SGR camps, engaging in guarding and ensuring the security of SGR properties and their people, and providing land. The study concludes that community engagement in decision-making creates motivation for the community. There are different perspectives of community engagement, like social perspective, System perspective, Individual perspective, and visual perspective. The study recommends that there is a need for the government to ensure constant engagement of the community in whatever kind of project is undertaken in the respective community, regardless of the size, nature, and impact of that particular project. This can be done through inclusivity of all the affected people, by putting in place a mechanism that will reach out to various groups within the community, and ensure their views are considered and taken on board during the entire process of decision-making.

Delving into The Effects of Hydro-Politics: Investment and Financing on Foreign Policy Decisions Among the Nile Basin Countries

2025-07-21T19:09:25+02:00

This study examines the effects of hydro-politics, investment, and financing on foreign policy decisions among Nile Basin countries, focusing on the dynamics of transboundary water governance. Recognising that water scarcity significantly impacts diplomatic relations among nations reliant on shared water resources, the research is anchored in theories of hydro-politics and international relations. A mixed-methods approach is utilised, combining qualitative and quantitative data to analyse the interplay between these countries and assess how hydro-political strategies affect regional stability and cooperation. The findings reveal that water resource management is deeply politicised, carrying substantial implications for conflict prevention and diplomatic relations. The research highlights that investment and financing decisions are closely tied to national priorities and diplomatic objectives. As riparian states grapple with increasing population pressures and climate change, the competition for water resources has intensified, necessitating a nuanced understanding of the hydro-political landscape in the region. Notably, the completion of significant infrastructure projects, such as the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), has underscored the complex relationships among upstream and downstream countries, particularly between Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan. The study’s conclusions stress the importance of integrating hydro-political considerations into foreign policy frameworks, advocating for collaborative approaches that prioritise equitable water distribution and regional peace. It calls for the establishment of comprehensive legal frameworks for transboundary water management to address historical grievances and contemporary realities. Recommendations emphasise that policymakers and stakeholders should prioritise equitable distribution of water resources and foster regional cooperation to enhance sustainable management. The role of development financiers, such as the World Bank and African Development Bank, is deemed critical for funding water infrastructure projects that promote cooperation and sustainable development. Ultimately, this research aims to provide valuable insights for policymakers, scholars, and practitioners engaged in water resource management and international relations, enhancing the understanding of how hydro-politics influences foreign policy decisions in the Nile Basin context.

Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Interventions and the Attainment of Peace in the East African Region: A Case Study of IGAD in the South Sudan Peace Efforts

2025-08-08T15:23:08+02:00

The study examines the overall effectiveness of the IGAD as a peacemaker in the conflict in the Republic of South Sudan from its independence in 2011 to 2023. This was done through examining the effectiveness, institutional framework, strategies, and challenges of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in resolving the South Sudan conflict. Grounded on the realist and liberal institutionalist theories of international relations, which provide competing yet complementary lenses for analysing IGAD's interventions in South Sudan, the study employed a mixed methods approach with a strong emphasis on descriptive quantitative analysis and qualitative interviews. Data was collected from key stakeholders to assess IGAD’s peacebuilding interventions, the implementation of the 2015 Peace Agreement, and the institutional structures supporting these efforts. Findings reveal that IGAD’s role in peace mediation, stakeholder engagement, power-sharing proposals, and humanitarian assistance has been partially effective. However, significant limitations persist, including the absence of peacekeeping operations, weak enforcement mechanisms, technical loopholes in peace agreements, and persistent internal and external political interferences. The study also highlights gaps in sensitising warring parties on the implications of war, disarmament efforts, and equitable stakeholder inclusion. Institutional weaknesses, such as a lack of standardised monitoring systems and limited capacity to address competing member state interests, further constrain IGAD’s effectiveness. Based on these findings, the study recommends expanding IGAD’s mandate to include peacekeeping and disarmament operations, institutionalising monitoring and enforcement bodies, promoting neutral and inclusive dialogue processes, and strengthening internal accountability frameworks. Future research should explore comparative regional peacebuilding models, the role of grassroots actors in IGAD interventions, and the long-term sustainability of regional peace agreements to deepen understanding and guide reforms in regional conflict resolution mechanisms.

Parliaments and Post-Conflict Justice: Amplifying the Voices of Children Born in LRA Captivity in Northern Uganda

2025-08-08T18:34:45+02:00

Introduction: This paper explores the intersection of parliamentary action and post-conflict justice in Northern Uganda, with a specific focus on children born in captivity during the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency. Methodology: The qualitative, participatory research design was employed, with the use of In-depth oral interviews, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), Key Informant Interviews, Document Review and Participatory Tools to collect the necessary data. Findings: Key emerging themes include existential crisis of identity, stigma and social exclusion, structural marginalisation and legal invisibility, psychological and intergenerational trauma, aspirations and the power of voice. Conclusions: The stories shared by children born in captivity, their mothers, and various community stakeholders reveal persistent exclusion and neglect. At the policy level, the voices of one of the policy makers confirm that the issue of children born in captivity remains an overlooked category in national development plans and post-conflict frameworks. Amplifying these voices is a moral and historical obligation, requiring a collective reimagining of community, policy, and tradition, one where inclusion is not conditional on lineage or legitimacy, but anchored in shared humanity. Recommendations: This paper argues that Parliament has both a moral and constitutional obligation to address the structural barriers confronting these children, targeted legislative interventions, and culturally sensitive integration programs. It further recommends psychological healing and mental health interventions, educational support and livelihood empowerment, religious engagement and faith-based support, and inclusive national dialogues that centre these children as rightful stakeholders in Uganda’s post-conflict future