MUCA Project Workshop Report

The Workshop on ‘Everyday Violence in Cities’ organized under the Migration Urbanization and Conflict in African Cities (MUCA) Project convened a group of experts, researchers, and policymakers to discuss the challenges and strategies for managing urban growth towards peaceful urban futures in Africa. Here is a detailed report based on the event’s program:

Registration session started at 9:00 am and it provided participants an opportunity to connect, receive relevant materials, and acquaint themselves with fellow attendees.

General Introduction & Overview of MUCA Emerging Findings and Feedback

The workshop began at 10:00 am with an opening session orchestrated by co-facilitators Dr. Esther Thontteh and Dr. Kennedy Eborka, who provided a warm welcome and facilitated the general introduction of all participants. Dr. Esther Thontteh and Dr. Kennedy Eborka continued to engage participants, setting the stage for a fruitful exchange of ideas. Prof. Taibat Lawanson, the Project Lead, delivered a comprehensive welcome address, providing an overview of the MUCA Project’s objectives and creating context for the day’s discussions. Dr. Esther Thontteh further elaborated on the overview by discussing emerging findings and feedback specific to Lagos.

Paper Presentations

The morning session included two important paper presentations. Dr. Edmund Chinem Nwokaeze shared valuable knowledge on urban governance and security challenges in Port Harcourt, discussing implications for peaceful urban futures. This was followed by Dr. Abdulkadir Muhammed Yahaya’s exploration of managing urban growth in African cities, with a focus on Kaduna. Each paper sparked thoughtful interactive sessions led by Dr. Kennedy Eborka, where participants actively engaged with the content.

An interactive session led by Dr. Kennedy Eborka allowed participants to engage in discussions, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas. A brief tea break provided a networking opportunity, enhancing collaboration among attendees. During the tea break, attendees engaged in informal dialogues, which served as an extension of the learning environment.

Post tea break, Ms. Judith Mbabazi’s presented emerging findings from Kampala, Uganda. The session transitioned into a general discussion directed by Dr. Kennedy Eborka, where audience feedback provided valuable insights. There was pause for lunch break and general group photograph. A group photograph marked the collective effort of the workshop participants, just before adjourning for a lunch break that provided further opportunity for attendees to connect.

Panel Discussion

After the lunch break, the afternoon was marked by an engaging panel discussion moderated by Dr. Esther Thontteh. Panelists included Ms. Hafisa Namuli (Local Government, Kampala, Uganda), Dr. (Mrs.) Grace Chigala Ajaegbo (Legal Services Department, Rivers State House of Assembly), Dr. Austin Agugua (Human Rights Research and Education Centre (HURREC), and Mr. Eugene Osigwe (Institute of Voluntary Sector Management). The questions collectively explored the intricate impact of urbanization on diverse facets of life in African cities. From socioeconomic inequality and everyday violence to the role of migration in shaping intergroup tensions and social cohesion, the inquiries sought a comprehensive understanding of the evolving urban landscape. Central themes included assessing law enforcement effectiveness amidst urbanization, understanding the intersection of gender-based violence and migration experiences, and evaluating the role of local authorities in addressing or exacerbating community issues. Additionally, there was a concerted effort to identify strategies fostering inclusivity and peaceful coexistence, all while contemplating policy interventions that can pave the way for harmonious urban futures, emphasizing engagement with a spectrum of stakeholders crucial for successful implementation.

Conclusion
The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Esther Thontteh and closing remarks by Prof. Taibat Lawanson, summarizing the day’s discussions and highlighting action steps. The final moments of the event included a group photograph, capturing the essence of the workshop and the collective effort toward a sustainable future for African cities.