SUMMARY

The Dodoth is an agro-pastoralist tribe closely related to the larger Karimojong group. The tribe, which is located in the northern parts of the Ugandan Karamoja region, is believed to have separated from the Karimojong in the middle of the 18th century when it moved north into the mountain areas. The availability of pastures both in rainy and dry seasons in this new area led the Dodoth to abandon the traditional nomadic life of the Karimojong. Although most customs still resemble those of the main tribes of northeaster Uganda, the Dodoth are often distinguished by their homesteads which are larger and shared by up to 40 people. The Dodoth can also be differentiated by their fortified walls constructed to protect the cattle from raids. Like the rest of the Karimojong, Dodoth value cattle above all else since it ensures tribal survival.

Present-day relationships with the other tribes of the Karimojong clusters is mainly characterised by fierce inter-group conflict and competition over the same water and forage resources. Violence is mainly characterised by cattle raiding. Although tribal relations have deteriorated by decades of intertribal cattle raids, alliances within the Karimojong cluster still do occur. Indeed, in periods of heavy drought or when threatened by a stronger enemy, the combined strength of several tribes can assure survival. Subsequently, alliances are often brief and limited to periods of common difficulties. Leadership in the group is organised by an age grade system. The elder are the only legitimate decision-makers responsible for governing the group. They are also the key designers of organised raids against other groups. At the same time, they play an important part in peace negotiations after the raids by holding ceremonies and offering compensations.

The Dodoth have been involved in the non-state category of UCDP organised violence