Uganda Struggles to Feed 1.7 Million Refugees

Uganda, which is home to more than 1.7 million refugees, is Africa's largest refugee-hosting nation, according to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR).

However, the international support that once sustained Uganda’s refugee assistance programs is rapidly diminishing.

Each month, nearly 10,000 new refugees arrive, primarily from neighboring South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as from the conflict-ridden regions of Sudan. 

Only the newest arrivals receive full food assistance, leaving thousands vulnerable to hunger and poverty.

Last week, UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi visited Uganda to highlight the urgency of the funding shortfall.

“The international community must not take Uganda’s generosity and the global public good it provides for granted,” Grandi emphasized in a statement at the end of his visit.

He called upon international donors and humanitarian partners to support Uganda in upholding its refugee commitments, urging them to work with the government to address the critical needs of the refugees and the communities graciously hosting them.