This was a research study on the role of religious communities and faith-based organizations in enhancing local development and resilience outcomes in Uganda. It was a one-year research project (2020-2021) funded by USAID’s Center for Development Research and Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships. The study focused on the intersection of religious engagement and community resilience in Uganda and aimed at addressing the gap in development literature by examining how religious communities and faith-based organizations (FBOs) contribute to building local resilience beyond their traditional spiritual roles.

The research employed a qualitative case study methodology, selecting diverse religious communities across different regions of Uganda representing Muslim, Catholic, Protestant, and Pentecostal traditions. Through in-depth interviews with religious leaders, FBO staff, community members, and development practitioners, the study documented the multiple roles that religious institutions play in resilience-building. Key findings revealed that religious communities often serve as first responders during crises, leveraging their trust within communities and extensive networks to provide immediate relief and longer-term support. The study also documented challenges in religious-development partnerships, including differing timelines (development projects versus long-term religious ministry), concerns about proselytization, and varying capacities among religious institutions. Finally, the research developed a typology of religious engagement in resilience, ranging from service delivery to advocacy to values formation, and also showcased some case studies highlighting innovative partnerships with development programs to enhance community resilience.