Mena Khan
Research Mentor: Kelly Askew
Mentor Department: Anthropology, LSA
Author(s): Mena Khan, Jennifer Larios
Session: Session 3 (11:00 AM – 11:50 AM)
Presentation Type: Poster 75
Abstract
This research project examines the challenges faced by the Ik people, an indigenous community living in the Karamoja Region of Uganda near the Kidepo Valley National Park. The creation of this national park in northeastern Uganda has restricted hunting and land use where the Ik traditionally lived. This park limits access to food and resources that heavily impacts the Ik’s livelihood. Although Uganda’s constitution recognizes the Ik community, they continue to face limited political representation and a lack of access to resources. These challenges are only worsened by the fact that the majority of the Ik population is made up of adolescents. Unfortunately, Ik adolescents absorb economic and leadership responsibilities in their households, which prevents them from continuing school and accessing opportunities that will improve their lives. My motivation for this research came from Uganda’s recent presidential election. Despite protests against the current government, President Museveni won for his seventh consecutive term. This election reaffirmed that the chances of progress for government recognition and development projects positively impacting Indigenous communities in Uganda are slim. This research uses a qualitative case study approach, drawing on reports from news articles that use government statistics and international organizations like UNICEF to analyze the social and economic conditions of the Ik community. Particular attention is given to the relationship of education (specifically literacy rates), poverty, and access to healthcare. The findings suggest that structural barriers, including geographic isolation, poverty, and limited infrastructure, have contributed to severe disparities in education and healthcare access in the region. Literacy rates in Karamoja are approximately 50% lower than the national average, and health care is limited due to distance. These conditions affect Ik youth the most. Understanding these dynamics highlights the broader implications of political recognition and inclusive development policies. Addressing these barriers is crucial for improving the livelihoods of Ik youth and breaking the cycle of poverty.
