Peace Building & Conflict Mitigation

SECTOR AREA

The organization in partnership with cross-border partners from Uganda, South Sudan and Ethiopia accord communities on both sides of the border opportunities for better co-operation, close coordination, peaceful coexistence and bridge isolation gaps to improve their livelihood and socio-economic conditions for sustainable peace and development.

Our approach is guided by the fact that peace-building requires a multi-stakeholder approach. Therefore, participation of conflict-affected communities, inclusive of different groups, e.g. elders, women and youth, is vital to address their needs and ensure ownership.

Specific objectives of the programming include: increasing inter-ethnic interaction, collaboration and movement; reduction of tensions and resource based conflicts; eliminating illegal flow of small-arms and light weapons; empowering local and county governments; strengthening peace building, community resilience and conflict prevention; increasing cross border trade and investment; improving disease surveillance and natural resource management; improving livelihoods, food security and nutrition; improving infrastructure and cross border coordination; among others.

By directly engaging conflict-affected communities and strengthening policy frameworks, the programme contributes to conflict prevention and management in the short term while promoting sustainable peace and protecting community rights. A core focus is building horizontal relationships within and between communities and institutionalizing these through participatory peace committees as alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. The programme prioritizes the inclusion of women and youth in peacebuilding and security decision-making processes to ensure inclusive and lasting outcomes.

In addition, the programme strengthens vertical relationships between communities, civil society organizations, county and national governments, and the private sector to promote coordinated, locally driven peacebuilding approaches. TUPADO continues to build the capacity of informal community structures by working through local community-based organizations and groups, strengthening their knowledge, skills, and relationships to address conflict, land, and natural resource management challenges.

To date, TUPADO has supported the formation and training of peace committees, facilitated cross-border peace and leadership meetings, conducted rapid conflict response and early warning initiatives, supported trauma healing processes, developed peace education and campaign materials, and integrated gender mainstreaming into peacebuilding initiatives.