Uganda, which hosts 1.7 million refugees, is facing a growing array of challenges as Africa's largest refugee host nation.
The country has long been lauded for its open-door policy, which grants refugees access to land, employment, and education. However, the sheer scale of the refugee population is placing unprecedented strain on Uganda's resources and infrastructure.
According to the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), over one-third of the world’s forcibly displaced persons are in Africa, including 7.8 million refugees and asylum seekers, and 23.6 million internally displaced persons.
“As the hosts of Africa's largest refugee population, with an estimated number of 1.7 million refugees, it is incumbent on us to have these conversations,” said the UHRC Chairperson, Mariam Wangadya emphasizing Uganda’s critical role in this global crisis.
The increase in migration over the years has brought new dynamics and tensions to Uganda. “Whereas migration is not a new phenomenon in the country, the volume of movement of persons has grown over the years and with this, increasing tensions and dynamics,” the Chairperson noted.
These tensions are further compounded by rising cases of human trafficking and violations of migrants' rights during their journeys.
Uganda is also dealing with the heightened vulnerability of migrants, especially those in irregular situations.
The UHRC Chairperson emphasized, “Even though migrants are not inherently considered vulnerable, they are often susceptible to human rights violations.” The government faces the ongoing challenge of ensuring that migration is managed in a way that is fair, mutually beneficial, and respectful of human rights.
Specific migrant communities, such as the Maragoli, Banyarwanda, Eritreans, Ethiopians, and Somalis, living in areas like Kabalagala, Kisenyi, and Bunga, continue to face discrimination. The UHRC Chairperson highlighted the need to protect these communities, who struggle to access basic services and integrate into society amidst the growing pressures on Uganda.
The article sheds light on the complexities Uganda faces as it continues to welcome a large number of refugees, with significant implications for both the refugee population and the country's ability to sustain its open-door policy.