Uganda and Rwanda: Post Conflict Transformation

Explore the social, economic, and cultural issues affecting Uganda and Rwanda as both countries attempt to rebuild sustainable societies following highly destructive conflicts.

The program examines in-depth two distinct conflicts: the long-running civil war in northern Uganda and the 1994 Rwanda genocide. 

In both nations, students engage with academics and intellectuals, organizations, community groups, and policymakers – all working towards reconciliation and redevelopment – to gain an understanding of the historical issues underlying the two conflicts and the nature of efforts to consolidate peace in their respective aftermaths.  Past student groups have had audiences with President Museveni of Uganda, lead opposition politicians, and other key political figures in both countries.  Homestays in Rwanda and Uganda give students an inside view of both countries and their cultures.

Africa's Great Lakes region is known for its often spectacular topography, rich, indigenous cultures, and its temperate climate, the result of relatively high elevations.  Highly organized kingdoms in Rwanda, Burundi, and throughout southern and western Uganda were left intact by the colonial powers.  An area of rich soils and abundant rainfall, the Great Lakes region was seen as having great potential following independence in the 1960s.  But persistent and often violent political strife and instability, much of which has roots in the colonial period, have blighted this fascinating and beautiful region.

In this setting, communities, government officials, and civil society groups struggle to rebuild their societies, strengthen peace, and come to terms with the traumas of conflict.  Working in conjunction with organizations and institutions such as the Center for Conflict Management at the National University of Rwanda and the Caritas Relief Organization in Gulu this program exposes students to these efforts firsthand.