Contributions of Local Community Groups’ Initiatives in Reducing Rural Livelihood Insecurities in the Teso Sub-Region in Uganda
Abstract
The Teso Sub-Region in Eastern Uganda faces persistent poverty and limited economic prospects, primarily due to low levels of capital accumulation, insufficient investment, and the lack of entrepreneurial support, which hampers the development of livelihood resources. This article investigates the significant impact of inclusive community group initiatives in tackling persistent vulnerabilities in rural areas of the region by examining the socio-economic conditions of members, the financial shortcomings, and the potential for varied capital sources. The research presents strategies to improve livelihoods in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Utilising qualitative data, the article emphasises the transformative power of endogenous growth and offers policy recommendations to overcome systemic obstacles. The study was carried out in three districts of Bukedea, Kumi and Ngora in Teso-Sub Region- Eastern Uganda and was guided by the key objective of ascertaining the contributions of community groups to subscribed members through the lenses of different livelihood assets (physical, social, financial, natural and human). A descriptive study design was adopted, and a total of 384 respondents derived from a calculated sample participated in this study. The study established that ‘community’ is indeed an African value that, when exploited sincerely, will enduringly contribute to financial, human, physical, natural, social and investment assets as key livelihood possessions. There’s significant approval of gender inclusivity in collective action, where both men, women and the youth work communally to improve their standards of living. Social networks are integral in the path of fighting rural vulnerabilities like hunger and income insecurity. Women and girls take up 75% of leadership roles for mixed community and youth groups, ruling out earlier assertions of culture as a basis of gender segregation. Trust among members working in groups is steadfast and a basis upon which their activities are grounded. Harnessing CSO operations to the needs of community groups’ initiatives is key, building their capacity to grow, invest, and consequently supporting the livelihood assets of human, social, financial, physical and natural resources is paramount.
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