An assessment of the impact of allied democratic force insurgencies on the Muslims of Kasese district from 1996 – 2006

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to assess the social economic impact of ADF insurgencies on the Muslims of Kasese District in areas of poverty, ill health, illiteracy, economic insecurity and social injustice. Basing on in depth study of social phenomena, a qualitative design was employed using investigative methods of in depth interviews, observations and group discussions. The findings indicate that the ADF insurgencies affected the Muslims welfare on various aspects at the social economic levels. Muslims were denied medical care and education opportunities because ADF abducted them and the government suspected them to be rebels. They faced a double tragedy due to that insecurity and they could not feel free with others in different communities. The findings also showed that the ADF insurgencies created economic problems to the Muslim community. They were economically disempowered by the closure of Muslim aid organizations, denial of employment, and the general feeling of suspended security coupled with unending insurgency led to general backward development and poverty of the Muslims in Kasese District.