Marjoke Oosterom (Institute of Development Studies, UK) carries out her PhD research on the effects of conflict and displacement on citizen participation and local governance in Northern Uganda. In 2010, she is doing her field research in several villages in Kitgum and Apac districts. In this blog she tells about her experiences in the field and reflects on issues in the country.
The Acholi sub-region and bordering districts experienced extremely violent activities and abductions by the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) for 20 years. A vast majority of the population was displaced and lived in IDP camps. Since 2 years ago, Northern Uganda is stable and people have almost all returned home. Local governments are resuming their functions. Both the people and the local government officials face tremendous challenges in the recovery process. This study will focus on the consequences for both citizens and local institutions, tracing how memories of the conflict are carried into the present. The research is supported by Hivos and ICCO.