Assessing the socio-economic welfare of Pokot women in Amudat district : impact of pastoralist conflicts and strategies for improvement

Abstract

This study assessed the socio-economic welfare of Pokot women in Amudat District, Uganda, focusing on the impact of pastoralist ethnic conflicts and the contribution of strategies aimed at improving their welfare. The study pursued three objectives: (i) to explore the socio-economic welfare of Pokot women in Amudat District, (ii) to examine the perceived impact of pastoralist ethnic conflicts on their socio-economic welfare, and (iii) to investigate the contribution of strategies implemented to enhance their welfare. Guided by a phenomenological research design, and qualitative approach data were collected from district and community leaders as well as local residents using in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observation. The sample comprised 54 participants (36 females, 18 males), including 9 key informants and 5 focus groups of 8–12 members each. Findings revealed that Pokot women experienced multiple socio-economic challenges, including poverty, poor health, marginalization, harmful cultural norms, and unstable marriages. Pastoralist ethnic conflicts further exacerbated these challenges through physical and sexual abuse, displacement, and food and human insecurity. However, participants reported notable improvements in living conditions as a result of government and NGO interventions, including enhanced access to social services, community support, and increased participation in dialogue and decision-making forums. While interventions such as institutional support, disarmament, and livelihood programs had been implemented, their outcomes were mixed, highlighting gaps in coverage and effectiveness. Participants suggested strategies for further improvement, including sensitization on alternative economic activities, increased financial support, strengthened community participation, peacebuilding initiatives, and targeted women’s empowerment programs. The study concludes that pastoralist ethnic conflicts continue to undermine the socio-economic welfare of Pokot women, and that existing interventions require strategic reassessment. It recommends that the government and other stakeholders adopt integrated, gender-responsive strategies that promote protection, recovery, empowerment, and sustainable livelihoods for women in conflict-affected communities.