Impact of Development Interventionson Peace Building Blue Nile State - Sudan

Abstract

Blue Nile is one of the three transitional states that have special status in the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA). The state constitutes a bridge between Sudan and South Sudan. It was one of the conflict grounds, where the population structure has been greatly affected and many others displaced. Later in 2006, it became accessible to INGOs to enter and to do development work. This research aims to study the impacts achieved towards peace building as a result of the interventions adopted by selected INGOs including World Vision, Islamic Relief, and Practical Action. Study hypotheses assumed that: development activities should have contributed to have an impact on livelihood improvement, promoting groups’ sharing activities, and improved personal relations that in turn enhance peace building. Data and information were collected from four villages (Bagees, Bakori, Amalma and Median) located in Baw and Geissan Localities that were based on a sample of 10% of the clusters of the targeted households. Tools used included questionnaire and checklists for Focus Group Discussion and key informants, in addition to direct interviews with representatives from the selected organizations. Information collected included socio-economic context that reflects recognition of impact and changes that affected the community. Some livelihood indictors applied to measure wellbeing dimensions; economic activities, education, health and gender were also collected. Results of the development intervention adopted showed improvement in all livelihood aspects, and remarkably promoted peace co-existence. The study recommend scaling up in development that support conducive peace environment.