Authors: Stella Sarah Nakidhuli1, Wekulo S. Fwamba2 and Adero Bernard1
1National Defence University Kenya (NDU – K),
P.O. Box 30083 – 00100, Nairobi – KENYA.
Author Email: stellahelse63@gmail.com
2Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology
P. O. BOX 190-50100, Kakamega – KENYA
ABSTRACT : Natural disasters, including floods, landslides, mudslides, earthquakes, and famine, persistently impact both developed and developing nations, presenting severe threats to human security through loss of life and livelihoods. In Uganda, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) are constitutionally mandated to support civilian authorities during emergencies. However, assessments indicated that the UPDF’s response to disasters often falls short of community and stakeholder expectations regarding skills and effectiveness. The purpose of the study was to assess the impact of the strategies of Defence Forces on disaster preparedness, a case of UPDF. Employing descriptive design and a mixed-methods approach, the study utilized both quantitative and qualitative methods to gather data from 59 professionals in the field of disaster management. Qualitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data was thematically analysed. The findings revealed that 32.3% of respondents identified inadequate training, knowledge and skills among UPDF officers in disaster response. Additionally, a significant portion of respondents highlighted inappropriate allocation of resources for disaster preparedness, with only 6% agreeing that budget allocations are sufficient. Furthermore, 58.8% of participants expressed cautious optimism regarding the UPDF’s future readiness to handle disasters, though the researcher advocates for this percentage to exceed 75%. The study recommended capacity building, improved remuneration, and better equipment to elevate UPDF’s preparedness. Lastly, only 26.5% of respondents rated the UPDF’s knowledge base in risk management and disaster preparedness as satisfactory, underscoring the need for significant improvements. The researcher urges authorities and stakeholders to address these deficiencies and bolster disaster preparedness efforts.
Keywords: Disaster preparedness, defence forces, strategies, mechanisms and civil-military cooperation
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Suggested Citation
Nakidhuli, S. S., Wekulo, S.F and Adero, B. (2025). Assessing the Impact of Strategies of Defence Forces on Disaster Preparedness: A Case of Peoples’ Defence Forces, Uganda . African Research Journal of Education and Social Sciences, 12(1), 49-59. Available at http://arjess.org/social-sciences-research/assessing-the-impact-of-strategies-of-defence-forces-on-disaster-preparedness-a-case-of-peoples-defence-forces-uganda.pdf
