Sexual and gender-based violence during project land acquisition : a mixed methods study of the Kampala Institutional Infrastructure Project (KIIDP-II) affected community in Kampala City, Uganda

Abstract

This study examined how SGBV during land acquisition for Kampala Institutional Infrastructure Project (KIIDP-II) affected communities in Nakawa Division. It identified drivers, risk factors, effects, and needed interventions for prevention, reporting, and response, guided by the social-ecological model. The study employed a mixed-methods approach and a convergent parallel mixed methods design. Systematic random sampling and purposive sampling techniques were used to select respondents. Quantitative data were collected from 148 respondents using a survey, while qualitative data were gathered from key informants and focus group discussion participants. Qualitative data were analysed manually using thematic analysis, while quantitative data were analysed using SPSS (version 20). Most participants were aware of KIIDP-II, but less than half knew about SGBV, which was often underreported due to cultural taboos and fear of jeopardizing the project. SGBV during land acquisition stemmed from ignorance, negative attitudes, societal norms, gaps in policies, and poverty. Respondents noted land acquisition increased SGBV, driven by lack of compensation, rising costs, unemployment, and family conflicts. Many didn't receive compensation since the project had no compensation component, but instead got reconstructed structures instead of cash. Land acquisition and resettlement were seen as primary SGBV risk factors, along with influx of workers, shifting power, and transport issues. The study concludes that several factors at individual and societal levels contribute to SGBV during land acquisition. The process can worsen vulnerabilities and increase SGBV when fair compensation and transparent negotiations are lacking. Risk factors are complex, stemming from land acquisition effects and social changes from infrastructure projects. Therefore, there is a need for increased community awareness of SGBV risks, prevention, and land rights, along with targeted empowerment for vulnerable groups, especially women. Establishing accessible grievance mechanisms is also crucial.