Photo: Members from UMYDF, Bridgeway & ARLPI at the B2P (DRR) Knowledge Exchange Workshop
It is important to recognize that Violent Extremism has no limits. Even though the LRA war and its activities have ceased in Northern Uganda, it does not mean that everything is fully restored to normal. It is crucial to understand that VE has the potential to happen anywhere and can still have a profound impact on the people we care for. Francis from ARLPI spoke extensively about their organization's work during our Knowledge Exchange workshop which happened on the 7th & 8th August 2023 at UMYDF Centre for Peace Practice. ARLPI is an umbrella organization for the major religious denominations in Northern Uganda, and its objective is to pursue peaceful conflict resolution with the LRA.
Francis from ARLPI at the B2P (DRR) Knowledge Exchange Workshop
During the workshop, we also had the pleasure of hosting representatives from Bridgeway, including the esteemed Trauma Counsellor, PEACE KASIIMIRE, and the Resident Imam and Religious Counsellor, KIZIITO NASIIFU. Mr. Kiziito provided valuable insight into the intricate process that Bridgeway implements in rehabilitating returnees. He also gave us a glimpse into the challenges that Bridgeway faces, particularly in dealing with the mindset of the returnees. It was clear that the Bridgeway process requires a significant amount of commitment and patience to ensure that the returnees successfully complete the program.
Photo: The Team From Bridgeway Left to Right - Mr Kizito Naswif and Mdm PEACE KASIIMIRE at the B2P (DRR) Knowledge Exchange Workshop
At the workshop, attendees brought attention to the latest challenges in Deradicalisation, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration (DRR), one of which was the unique difficulties faced by women and children returnee. The discussion emphasized the need to develop innovative approaches to better support these vulnerable groups.
The primary objective of the workshop was to significantly improve the knowledge and self-efficacy of Uganda Muslim Youth Development Forum staff in DRR. This would ultimately lead to a marked increase in the quality of activities delivered to beneficiaries.
Our primary objective was to thoroughly evaluate the available resources and capacities that can be effectively utilized for Deradicalisation, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration programming. To provide in-depth insights on key stages that must be considered in DRR processes, along with a comprehensive analysis of Risk management and mitigation strategies for DRR programs. Furthermore, to critically examine and highlight the essential steps and best practices involved in monitoring and evaluating DRR interventions.
It is crucial to express our sincere appreciation to our partner, the Kofi Annan Foundation, for their significant technical and moral assistance, as well as to the European Union in Uganda for their generous contributions to the Bridges to Peace Project.
