Kampala: Since the start of 2025, Uganda has experienced a significant influx of refugees, with an average of 600 individuals arriving daily, resulting in a total of nearly two million new arrivals. However, the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) has raised alarms as funding is depleting rapidly, warning that Uganda may soon be unable to provide essential services and aid to these refugees.
According to EMM, Uganda's progressive refugee policy, which permits refugees to work and access public services, coupled with its geographic proximity to crisis areas, has positioned it as the largest refugee-hosting nation on the continent. However, the depletion of emergency funds by September could lead to dire consequences, including increased malnutrition among children, heightened risk of sexual violence against girls, and lack of shelter and protection for families unless international support is mobilized.
Dominique Hyde, UNHCR’s director for external relations, emphasized the urgency of the situation, sharing the story of a 16-year-old girl from South Sudan who is now the sole caretaker of her four younger siblings after fleeing violence. Such children rely heavily on the aid provided by UNHCR and the Ugandan government, which is currently at only 25% of the required funding. Hyde highlighted Uganda's openness in providing access to its schools and health centers, stressing that while the model is effective, international support is crucial for its sustainability.