Kampala: Uganda, known for its progressive refugee policy that allows refugees to work and access public services, is facing a critical funding shortfall that threatens the well-being of its refugee population. Uganda's proximity to crisis zones has positioned it as the largest refugee-hosting country in Africa.
According to United Nations, emergency funding allocated to support refugees in Uganda ran out in September. Dominique Hyde, the UNHCR's director for external relations, warned of dire consequences if additional funding is not secured. She emphasized that without immediate global intervention, more children will suffer from malnutrition, more girls will be exposed to sexual violence, and countless families will be left without shelter or protection.
UNHCR estimates that the cost to provide essential services to a refugee is $16 per month. However, with the current funding, the agency can only deliver $5 worth of aid per refugee each month. During a visit to the refugee camps, Ms. Hyde met a 16-year-old girl from South Sudan who, after losing her parents, is now the sole caregiver for her four younger siblings. The young girl dreams of returning to school, but her immediate focus remains survival.
The plight of refugees like her underscores the urgent need for sustained aid, which is rapidly depleting with only 25% of the necessary funding available. Uganda's open-door policy, which provides access to schools and health centers for refugees, can be successful, but it demands international support to continue, Ms. Hyde stressed.