Caritas Uganda are working with communities affected by conflict to strengthen peace, rebuild trust and improve everyday life. With support from Caritas Denmark through the Resilience and Livelihoods Improvement Programme (2022–2025), this work brings together humanitarian aid, development and peacebuilding in a joined-up, community-focused approach.
Supporting refugees, host communities and vulnerable groups, including young people and children in schools, helping them recover from displacement, instability and pressure on local resources. Activities are designed to support more peaceful ways of living together while also helping people cope with the challenges they face.
Peacebuilding efforts include a mix of local dialogues, reconciliation ceremonies, cultural events, mediation meetings and radio talk shows. These spaces give people the chance to listen to each other, share their experiences and find common ground.
Local peace committees have also taken part in training so they’re better equipped to support their communities and lead conversations that matter. Over time, they’re gaining the skills and confidence to keep this work going well into the future.
Women are a central part of all of this. Around 60% of participants in many of these activities are women, recognising the role they play in leading dialogue and helping to bring people together. They’re also working with local authorities, religious leaders and cultural figures to make sure the efforts reflect the needs and voices of the wider community.
One success story comes from Woko Zaida, a peace committee member from Mulondo. In the past, land disputes created tension between refugees and hosts. After taking part in Caritas-led sensitisation sessions, she saw attitudes begin to change. People started talking more, resolving issues through dialogue, and sharing land and resources in ways that benefit everyone.
As part of this work, we’re hosting a side event on 17 June titled Women and peacebuilding: uncapping the power of Catholic women peacebuilders. Focusing on the role of women in peace efforts in Uganda and across the Church, the event will begin with insights from recent work on the ground before opening up to a global panel discussing how women’s leadership can be better recognised, supported and strengthened in peace processes.