THE IMPACT OF DISARMAMENT ON THE SOCIOECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN KARAMOJA: A CASE STUDY OF KOTIDO SUB-COUNTY, KOTIDO DISTRICT

ABSTRACT

The research study is intended to assess the impact of disarmament on socioeconomic development/service delivery in Kotido Sub county, Kotido district. The research hypothesis was developed as follows: ~There is less contribution of disarmament to the socioeconomic development in Kotido Sub County in Kotido district”. The study will be carried out in Kotido Sub County in Kotido district. Where there is tension and distrust between the security agencies and the local communities such as when enforcing Law and order, violence sometimes erupts. In the face of these brutalities and violence, there

have been human rights abuse issues. The government program for disarmament in the region is still on, aimed at removing all illegally owned guns from the area. This has not been an easy exercise and often led to clashes that often spill over to widespread communal violence. In Kotido the Jie warriors resisted provoking equal reaction from the government forces (UPDF). In May 2002, Panyangara Sub County experienced a violent conflict in which 900 households were left without livelihood support items. A Number of organizations helped the victims to rebuild their lives and livelihood. Oxfam GB supported distribution of Non Food

Items worth over Ugsh. 1 00 million in the area.

In brief. the research will basically highlight the causes of conflicts. the factors that prompted

government to carry out disarmament. the impacts of disarmament on socioeconomic

development. the challenges hindering disarmament and eventually the possible strategies

and recommendations that can be undertaken for its effective implementation.