Uganda reaffirms support for Refugees, Host Communities

By Ismael Kasooha
Kampala

The Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, Hon. Sam Engola, has reiterated the Government’s commitment to supporting refugees and host communities through the provision of essential services.

The Minister told the Acting Country Representative of the UN refugee agency, Jason Hepps, during a meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), that Uganda will continue to implement policies that promote coexistence between refugees and host communities.

During the meeting, which was also attended by the Minister of State for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, Hon. Lilian Aber, and technical staff from OPM, Engola commended the UN refugee agency and its partners for their support to Uganda’s refugee response.

The Minister said the contributions of the Government and development partners have not only enabled Uganda to build the resilience of refugees and host communities but have also empowered them to pursue self-reliance amid severe humanitarian funding challenges.

Exchanging Gifts between the Minister for Relief Disaster Preparedness and Refugees and the Acting Country Representative of UNHCR

Currently, Uganda hosts over two million refugees, the largest refugee population in Africa.

“But these steadily growing refugee numbers deeply worry us amidst dwindling global humanitarian and development funding,” Engola said.

“This financial deficit has already resulted in continuous food rationing. Refugees are increasingly resorting to survival strategies that leave them exposed to exploitation and abuse.”

He noted that Uganda’s refugee response faces a staggering funding gap of USD 608.5 million. The Minister explained that budget cuts have also significantly affected the provision of health and education services.

Minister of State for Relief Disaster Preparedness and Refugees (left) exchanging gifts with the Ag. Country Representative for UNHCR

“We must unite international organisations, local communities, and our development partners to design and implement impactful programs,” Engola said. “Our focus must remain on transforming lives and supporting the long-term resilience of both our refugees and their generous host communities.”

Hepps assured the Minister of continued support for Uganda’s refugee response.