Church-led strategies and political conflict resolution in Uganda, a case study of Uganda joint Christian council

Abstract

The study examined the impact of church-led strategies on political conflict resolution in Uganda, A case study of Uganda Joint Christian Council. The study was based on three objectives: (i) To examine the role of UJCC-led mediation in political conflict resolution in Uganda, (ii) To assess the effectiveness of UJCC’s advocacy efforts in political conflict resolution in Uganda, (iii) To evaluate the contribution of UJCC’s peace building programs in political conflict resolution in Uganda. The study used a sample size of 133 from Uganda Joint Christian Council. A descriptive research design was employed and both quantitative and qualitative approaches of data collection were used. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson product moment correlation coefficient, multiple regression analysis, and analysis of variance. Field findings revealed that 91(68.5%) were in agreement that Uganda Joint Christian Council plays an active role in mediating political conflicts in Uganda. 8(6%) were neutral and 34(25.5%) were in disagreement. Findings from the field further revealed that 78(58.6%) were in agreement, 8(6%) were not sure and 47(35.3%) of were in disagreement. The efforts contribute to creating informed and responsible communities that understand the consequences of violence. Field findings also revealed that, 74(55.7%) were in agreement that UJCC facilitates interfaith collaboration for peace and unity in times of political unrest. 15(11.3%) were neutral and 44(33.1%) were in disagreement. This implies that UJCC’s ability to unite diverse faith leaders enables it to calm tensions, encourage dialogue and foster collective responses to national crises. Based on the findings of the study, it is concluded that the Uganda Joint Christian Council (UJCC) contributes to political conflict resolution in Uganda through its mediation and advocacy efforts. The majority acknowledged UJCC’s role in facilitating political dialogue, promoting non-violent engagement and building trust among conflicting political parties. The study recommended that the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs in partnership with the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda should establish a formal framework to collaborate with UJCC in political mediation.