ABSTRACT This study “Vulnerable Groups and Socio-Economic Development of Kasese” was carried out with specific objectives to; find out the different vulnerable groups; to examine the relationship between vulnerability and socio-economic development and to suggest possible” The researcher reviewed literature from various scholars on the major variables on vulnerable gender based violence and women empowerment. The study was an exploratory research based on qualitative and quantitative study designs where a questionnaire and interview guide were used as research instruments administered on a sample of 60 respondents. The study findings established that, the various vulnerable groups in Kasese include women, children, youth, disabled and elderly. It was further established that the relationship between vulnerability and socio-economic development included; poverty, unemployment and low development, increased cost to curb social immorality, increased cost of funds to regulate spread of diseases, poor mobilization and allocation of resources, and need for funds to curb high crime rate. However solutions to reduce vulnerability and improving on the socio-economic development process included; aligning social protection with anti poverty programmes, promoting social justice, promoting access to social services, improving, procedures for providing financial assistance and controlling rural urban migrations. The study concludes that vulnerability can only be effectively addressed if solutions put into consideration focus on long term effects for sustainability. The study recommends that; Focus needs to be put on sustainable programmes; assistance should be channeled through ways generally acceptable by all; effort to identify priority issues; organizing the vulnerable into support groups; creating financial access through rotational funds; social security assistance and sensitization campaigns and the projects of the poor. The study recommends further studies on naivety of vulnerable groups on the need for sustainable achievement.
