Methodology

Throughout the research, a qualitative methodological approach was employed. The research began with an extensive analysis of the available literature on Nuba Mountains, and gender relations in the context of conflict. The main mechanism of data collection, however, was the conduct of focus groups. Although a preliminary focus group guide was developed for each of the discussions, as well as an ideal profile (age, gender) of participants, the format was open. Researchers encouraged participants to exchange and share, whether or not the comments were directly tied to the topic at hand. This contributed to the quality of the focus groups and revealed findings that were not anticipated during the planning of the research.

A researcher worked closely with a Nuba-based translator to pose guiding questions and permit discussions to maintain a natural flow. What emerged, as is typical with qualitative methodology, were nuances, sometimes contradictory, and detailed descriptions of what it means to be a women or girl in Nuba Mountains. The discussions gave in-depth insights on the women and girls’ unique contributions and the challenges to their well-being, whether related to the conflict itself, culture and traditional practices, or, most often, a combination of factors. Additionally, as is common when qualitative methods are applied, the research revealed findings applicable outside of the boundaries of the immediate subject area, which are of particular value given the paucity of quality data emerging from the region in general, more specifically in reference to gender relations and disparities experienced by Nuba women and girls.

The focus groups were all conducted in the Nuba Mountains in April 2015. Some occurred in the regional capital, Kauda, but the majority were conducted in areas heavily affected by the on-going conflict, in Umdorein and Delami counties. Locations where focus groups were conducted were scouted by partners, and were chosen to permit safe and open discussions. Focus groups were typically 1.5 to two hours in duration. The focus groups were frequently interrupted, sometimes not resumed, when bombing by the Sudanese Air Force (SAF) became too intense to ensure informant security; as both Umdorein and Delami are located in close proximity to active front lines, and have been severely affected by SAF bombing. The timing of the research coincided with the Sudanese presidential election, widely opposed throughout Sudan, but not conducted at all in the rebel held areas, where the electoral commission did not have access. Bombing and ground campaigns targeting civilians are a hallmark of the conflict and continued while the research was being conducted. Aerial bombardment increased in frequency during daylight hours and intense short and long range artillery battles