ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the interface between religion and human security in Uganda. Having traced the historical context, the chapter argues that the Ugandan context confirms ‘the ambivalence of the Sacred,’ namely, the capacity of religion to be appropriated for both good and bad. In some instances, religion has promoted human security, while in others it has emerged as a threat to human security. The chapter shows how African Traditional Religions threatened the security of particular groups of people, for example, twins. The chapter then discusses the impact of missionary religions, namely Islam and Christianity, and how their struggles for supremacy and interaction with politics had implications on the security of citizens. The chapter also discusses the competition between Catholics and Protestants and how this has shaped identity in contemporary Uganda. Further, it highlights developments in northern Uganda and how these have threatened human security. Acknowledging the positive role of religion, the chapter draws attention to how it has contributed to development and security. Among others, the chapter cites the Uganda Joint Christian Council (UJCC), the Interreligious Council of Uganda (IRCU) and the Acholi Religious Leaders Peace Initiative (ARLPI) as bodies that have promoted human security in Uganda.
