In a significant milestone, Makerere University and ADRA Uganda today disseminated research findings on the REAL project, a two-year initiative aimed at improving food security and building resilience for refugees and host community members in Kyaka II and Rwamwanja refugee settlements.
The event, held at Makerere University's College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, brought together beneficiaries, researchers, and stakeholders to share best practices and lessons learned from the project.
Funded by DANIDA, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark, Novo Nordisk Foundation, FAHU Foundation, Justesen Foundation, and ADRA International, the REAL project has achieved remarkable success, with an 80% increase in VSLA savings and a 30% increase in loan portfolio.
"Anyesi Nyirasabimana, a 52-year-old refugee from Rwanda, expressed her gratitude, saying, "Mothers struggling with breast milk now benefit from goat milk produced through the project. Vegetable gardens have helped families cook balanced meals and improve children's nutrition."
Researchers from Makerere University presented their findings on the combined effect of VSLAs, FMS, and CSA on livelihoods in refugee settlements. The study revealed that integrated approaches yield better results than single interventions.
"The combined implementation of VSLA, FMS, and CSA has a positive effect on household food security and asset accumulation," said Tabitha Nyasyogo, Research Assistant at Makerere University.
The REAL project has also boosted climate-smart agriculture, with farmers adopting sustainable techniques to increase food production.
"We are getting more yields due to the environment, and we need to think of improving soil nutrition through organic methods, irrigation, and other techniques," said Dr. RCO Okello, Research Coordinator at Makerere University.
George Williams Kiberu, Programs Manager at ADRA Uganda, emphasised the project's focus on building resilience among refugees. "We wanted to see how refugees can survive and thrive, and this research has shown us the way forward."
The event was attended by representatives from the Office of the Prime Minister, Ministry of Agriculture, and development partners.
As the REAL project comes to a close, ADRA Uganda and Makerere University are committed to scaling up and sustaining these interventions to support refugees and host communities in Uganda.