In commemoration of International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, Kotido District launched its Local Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security on 28 March 2024. The much anticipated day of celebration commenced with a parade match with different members of the local community amounting up to 1500 people, 70% of which were women eagerly matching around the town
The event was graced by distinguished guests including the Woman Member of Parliament,Kotido, Hon Margaret Aleper, Bishop of Kotido diocese, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), the assistant Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Civil Society Organisations( CSOs), and about 30 local peace mediators as well as all the 11 members of the Task Force whose important contribution enabled the launching the Local Action plan.
The Plan aims to foster peaceful, sustained and transformed societies ensuring meaningful participation by women in the decision making process.
The day featured various activities, including a speech from the Guest of Honor , Hon. Aleper, a match with the band, creative presentations from the women and children of the local community on issues relating to women, peace and security.
A particular poignant moment was a performance by the children from the KRAAL School, many of whom were barely dressed or dressed in the one cloth they had received from birth. The children attain an education through the ABEK model championed by the Government of Uganda.
During the discussions, one of the officers who participated in the development process of the LAP emphasized the importance of children transitioning from informal schooling in the bush to formal educational institutions for effective peacebuilding.
“For peace building to yield, children need to leave the bush to go to other school establishments”
The question as to whether or not nature and parenting is still a major driver for conflict in this region is a point of discussion that could yield lasting peace solutions.
