From 17 to 20 March 2025, the Coalition of Pastoralist Civil Society Organizations (COPACSO), in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), successfully conducted an Enumerator Training Workshop in Moroto, Uganda. This activity was part of the project titled “Boosting Evidence on Biodiversity and Gender for Sustainable Livestock Transformation” (FVC/GLO/198/MUL).
The workshop aimed to equip 15 selected enumerators and COPACSO staff with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to collect high-quality data on the intersection of biodiversity, gender, and pastoralist livelihoods. The Tool for Agroecology Performance Evaluation (TAPE), the KoboCollect digital data tool, and focus group discussion (FGD) guidelines were the central pillars of the training.
Building Knowledge for Context-Specific Research
The training began with an introduction to the TAPE survey framework, highlighting its application to Uganda’s pastoral systems. Participants were guided through Step 0 (Contextualization) and Step 1 (Characterization of Agroecological Transitions), ensuring a strong understanding of socio-economic and ecological factors that shape pastoralist livelihoods.
Hands-on sessions enabled enumerators to familiarize themselves with KoboCollect, a digital tool essential for the standardized and efficient capture of household survey data. In addition, detailed guidance was provided on the use of focus group discussion guidelines, which are critical for gathering qualitative insights into gender roles and biodiversity practices.
Practical Field Testing in Moroto
A key feature of the training was the field practice test conducted in Moroto. Enumerators applied the TAPE survey and FGD guidelines in a real-world setting, allowing them to identify challenges, test the applicability of the tools, and collect feedback for further refinement. These field exercises were instrumental in adapting the data collection tools to the specific needs and realities of Uganda’s pastoralist communities.
Following the field test, a review session enabled participants to collaboratively refine the survey instruments. Valuable recommendations were collected, ensuring the tools were culturally relevant, technically sound, and ready for full deployment.
Results Achieved
The training workshop achieved its main objectives:
• 15 enumerators and COPACSO staff were fully trained on the use of the TAPE survey, KoboCollect application, and FGD guidelines.
• The TAPE and focus group discussion tools were successfully field-tested and adapted.
• A comprehensive plan for the next steps in data collection was developed and agreed upon.
The successful completion of the training has laid a strong foundation for high-quality, evidence-based research that will inform sustainable livestock policies, enhance biodiversity conservation, and promote gender equity within pastoral systems.
Strengthening Capacity for Sustainable Development
COPACSO remains committed to building local capacities and ensuring that pastoralist communities are at the center of research and advocacy efforts. By investing in the skills of local enumerators and adapting global tools to local contexts, we continue to strengthen the evidence base needed for sustainable pastoralist transformation in Uganda.
Together with FAO and our partners, we look forward to the next phases of the project and to supporting inclusive, sustainable livelihoods for pastoralist communities across the country.
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