Culture in Development

“Culture in development” refers to selective (positive aspects of culture / modern concepts) and voluntary integration of diverse cultural resources (values, principles, beliefs, bodies of knowledge and skills) into development thinking and practice. It entails analyzing the interface between “traditional” and “modern” thought, negotiating and compromising in order to define development that results in meaningful social, political and economic transformation. ‘Culture in development’ assumes a willingness to understand and appreciate the “rights of the other” to define and defend their worldview and thus entails respect and tolerance; seeking engagement rather than dominance.

To demonstrate our belief that development can only be sustained if culture is fully taken into account, we highlight local initiatives that illustrate experiences where cultural resources have been used to address development challenges:

1. Research and documentation: So far, CCFU has published 22 case studies that explore culture in relation to HIV/AIDS, Education, Gender, Social Protection, Herbal Medicine, Economic profit, among others. Our publications can be accessed on-line and in the CCFU Reading Room.
   Recently CCFU completed and launched 4 case studies on ‘Culture in Governance’, which examined the interface between traditional and state governance systems, highlighting the role of cultural leaders (clans, council of elders) in local governance. In Lango and Teso the focus was on protecting rights to land by clan leaders in collaboration with the Land Equity Movement of Uganda (LEMU). In Pokot, the traditional and modern conflict resolution mechanisms were explored while in Jonam (Panyimur) the interface between traditional and state government systems in conflict management were examined. Finally, the experiences of a council of elders or “Isaazi” speaking out against corruption in Tooro presented a unique contribution to good governance. These cases can be found in a publication entitled “Culture in Governance: Does it work?”
   
   
2. ‘Culture in development’ training: Often CCFU has been confronted with the questions: “How do you integrate culture in existing development programmes?” and in response, the Foundation designed and implemented a 2-week intensive training cycle. This 2-module course provides knowledge on cultural concepts and approaches, and tests culture-specific field tools and cultural analysis frameworks. A “Culture in Development” training guide for development practitioners has been developed and is available for use amongst CCFU resources.  CCFU also supports individual organisations to integrate culture in their existing programmes and approaches. This could be in the form of training workshops, write-shops or and reflection events depending on the desired outcome.
   
   
3. Influencing perceptions on ‘culture in development’: CCFU works with like-minded organisations to promote a positive perception of culture and demonstrate its value from different dimensions.  CCFU, in collaboration with the Bayimba Cultural Foundation, the Arterial Network and the Uganda National Cultural Centre, the Uganda Artists Association, and House of Talent, launched the first ever Culture and Arts Conference. This annual event provides a platform to strengthen the role, value and visibility of actors in the culture sector with the aim of addressing contemporary challenges and capitalizing on opportunities to promote the sector. In May 2010 the first conference attracted approximately 300 people. Click here for detailed report. Preparations for the next Art and Culture Conference, 2011 are under way. Visit www.uacac.org for more information.

Elders in Pokot attending a clan leaders meeting. A picture taken during CCFU's work on Culture in Governance with POZIDEP in Amudat.