Exploring the livelihood strategies of Somali refugee women in Nakivale Refugee settlement camp, Uganda A thesis presented to the school of postgraduate studies and research Kampala International University Kampala, Uganda in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree master of human rights and development
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Date
2012-11
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Kampala International University, College of Humanities
Abstract
The purpose of study guided us three main objectives. Firstly, it examined the
livelihood strategies of Somali women refugees in Uganda. Secondly, it examined the
role(s) played by the UNHCR, international and local NGOs, state agencies and other
Community Based Organizations in providing material assistance to Somali women
refugees in Uganda. Finally, it examined problems encountered by these refugee
women in the pursuit of earning a living. Both purposive and cluster sampling were
used. Various quantitative and qualitative instruments were used.
Questionnaire was the main quantitative tool while Interviews Focus group
discussions( FGDs) and direct observations were used in collecting data from the
female respondents. The rationale of using only qualitative data was due to the
researcher’s desire to get feelings and experiences of the respondents to enrich the
quantitative data. The study found Somali refugee women as being involved in various
livelihood activities, common being hair-dressing. A few respondents had formal
employment. The younger women preferred labour intensive jobs, such as food
vending and trading. Also, occupational combination was a common practice to
ensure profitability and economic security. The respondents were found to be keen
to explore various livelihood options. Hair plaiting and vending were common small
business enterprises (SBEs). Furthermore, the study established a number of
obstacles which include: low wages and lack of capital. Recommendations made
include, the need for Aid agencies to establish credit schemes. Above all, refugees need
to be repatriated once there is peace. This will ensure that their dignity is restored.
Description
A thesis presented to the school of postgraduate studies and research Kampala International University Kampala, Uganda in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree master of human rights and development
Keywords
Livelihood strategies, Somali refugee, Women, Nakivale Refugee settlement camp, Uganda