An examination of refugee influx and conflict in Bidibidi Settlement, Yumbe District, Uganda

Abstract

The study aimed to analyze the influence of refugee influx on conflicts between refugees and host communities in Bidibidi Settlement, Yumbe District, Uganda. The study was guided by four specific objectives which were to examine the types and underlying causes of conflicts between refugees and host communities in Bidibidi Settlement; to assess the effects of these conflicts on both refugee and host community livelihoods, social cohesion, and well-being; to evaluate the effectiveness of existing conflict resolution mechanisms in addressing refugee- host tensions; and to propose evidence-based strategies for preventing and managing refugee- host conflicts in settlement contexts. The study adopted a mixed-methods convergent design, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. A sample size of 802 respondents was selected using stratified random sampling, simple random sampling, and purposive sampling techniques. Findings of the study revealed that land disputes were the most prevalent type of conflict (45%), followed by competition for natural resources (32%), and cultural misunderstandings (23%). Regarding underlying causes, resource competition was identified as the primary driver (68% of respondents), followed by perceived inequities in resource allocation (57%) and cultural differences (49%). Correlation analysis showed a strong positive relationship between resource competition and conflict intensity (r = 0.72, p < 0.01). The study also found that conflicts have significant negative effects on communities, with 77% of respondents reporting reduced income opportunities. Regression analysis revealed that conflict intensity significantly predicted income reduction (β = 0.68, p < 0.001), explaining 46% of the variance (R² = 0.46). Additionally, 82.8% of respondents indicated decreased trust between groups, with correlation analysis showing a strong negative relationship between conflict intensity and social cohesion (r = -0.81, p < 0.01). Furthermore, 79.3% reported increased stress and anxiety, while 70.7% agreed that conflicts decrease agricultural productivity. With regard to conflict resolution mechanisms, the study found that joint peace committees were the most effective (65% success rate), though only 45% of respondents felt these mechanisms were accessible to all community members. With regard to the findings, the study recommends that the Office of the Prime Minister and UNHCR should implement integrated service delivery systems that benefit both refugees and host communities equally. Additionally, humanitarian organizations should establish participatory resource management committees with equal representation from both groups to address natural resource competition. The study further recommends that local government should strengthen joint peace committees by providing adequate resources and ensuring accessibility to all community members, including women and youth. Finally, community- based organizations should implement intercultural dialogue programs to address cultural differences and promote social cohesion between refugees and host communities.