Uganda; Women’s Experiences in Situations of Armed Conflict, 1987-2001:
The Report covers the experiences of women in situations of armed conflict in the districts of Soroti, Katakwi and Kumi, which make up the Teso region in Eastern Uganda. It unveils the uniqueness of the Teso conflict which is multi dimensional in that it has an aspect of rebel insurgency and attacks by Karamajong warriors. The findings reveal a pathetic, gynaecological, psychological and orthopedic situation. The report is now in the final editing process and will be made public soon.
Below is an update on Isis-WICCE activities around the Critical Area of Concern "Women and Armed Conflict".
“ Women’s Experiences in Situations of Armed Conflict, 1987-2001: The Teso experience”
The Report covers the experiences of women in situations of armed conflict in the districts of Soroti, Katakwi and Kumi, which make up the Teso region in Eastern Uganda. It unveils the uniqueness of the Teso conflict which is multi dimensional in that it has an aspect of rebel insurgency and attacks by Karamajong warriors. The findings reveal pathetic, gynaecological, psychological and orthopedic situation.
The report was disseminated at the district level on 21st February 2002 with the aim of:
· letting the people of Teso hear about the problems brought about by conflict and try to work together to resolve conflicts
· to enable the leadership in the districts, the research assistants and the communities to cross check the validity of data, as well as providing an opportunity to the district leadership to have their recommendations incorporated in the report.
· Sharing the findings with the district team and other key policy makers for designing effective development plans.
The report in now in the final editing process and will be made public soon.
Enabling Victims of Armed Conflict Smile again
As part of the efforts to rebuild the shattered minds of the women affected by the armed conflict, Isis-WICCE in conjunction with a team of medical doctors have embarked on a medical intervention exercise in Teso. The intervention began on 18th February with a three day skills building training of locally based health workers on the identification counseling and treatment of War affected women. The screening of patients, treatment and surgery began on 25th February and will end on 13th March 2002.
According to Doctor Otim, “the number of patients received is overwhelming and justifies the neglect, poor facilitation and lack of prioritization given to the health system. This leaves majority of citizens to live with pathetic ailments that are manageable”.
This intervention is just a drop in the ocean. Many women and children will miss this opportunity given the meagre resources. Any body who can help one more woman live a happier life can contact Isis-WICCE.