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African refugees

Uganda Calls for Increased Resources to Support Refugees Amidst Unprecedented Numbers

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Uganda has been hailed for its progressive stance on refugees, hosting over 1.7 million asylum-seekers from South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, the country is now urging the United Nations and development partners to provide substantial resources to alleviate the strain on local infrastructure and services. State Minister of Foreign Affairs Henry Okello Oryem emphasized the need for tangible support, highlighting the overwhelming impact on schools, health centers, roads, and the environment.

Key Takeaways:

  • Uganda hosts almost 1.7 million refugees, primarily from South Sudan and the DRC, with the Uganda Country Refugee Response Plan requiring $858 million in funding.
  • The plan has only received 13% of the necessary funds, leaving a significant gap in support for refugees and host communities.
  • The International Organization for Migration (IOM) launched its Country Strategy for Uganda 2024-2028, focusing on peace and security, sustainable development, climate change, human rights, gender, youth, and global governance.
  • The IOM Chief of Mission, Sanusi Tejan Savage, emphasized the importance of collaboration and resource management in addressing migration-related challenges.
  • Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja stressed the government's commitment to strengthening resilience, social economic services for migrants, and facilitating pathways for regular migration.
  • State Minister Henry Okello Oryem called for sincere and honest praise from UN agencies and development partners, emphasizing the need for real resources to alleviate the pressure on local infrastructure and services.

Statistics:

  • Uganda hosts 1.7 million refugees, with the majority coming from South Sudan and the DRC.
  • The Uganda Country Refugee Response Plan requires $858 million in funding.
  • Only 13% of the required funds have been received, leaving a significant gap in support for refugees and host communities.
  • The IOM launched its country strategy for Uganda, covering the period 2024-2028.

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