How Are the Karamojong Politically Marginalised?

Abstract

The paper discusses the overlooked political marginalisation of Karamojong pastoralists in Uganda, contrary to a commonly held belief that ecological factors and pastoralism are the leading contributors to poverty and underdevelopment in Karamoja. Anchored within the theoretical strand of marginalisation, this article discusses how the actions of those operating at the centre of power perpetuate persistent poverty in Karamoja. A particular focus is placed on political representation, resource allocation and the engagement of local people in poverty eradication and development. The paper argues that the grants from central government are meagre and misguided, Karamoja is poorly and ineffectively represented at policy levels, and the local people have a limited voice in poverty alleviation and development programmes. The paper concludes that Karamoja’s persistent poverty is to a great extent a product of political marginalisation. Finally, it recommends affirmative action, effective local leadership, sensitisation and involvement of local people in poverty alleviation initiatives and combating corruption in public offices.

Keywords

• political marginalisation
• pastoralism
• anti-pastoralist policy
• climatic conditions
• political representation
• resource allocation
• engagement of local people
• persistent poverty
• karamoja (uganda)