The World Food Programme (WFP) and the Ugandan government have joined forces to launch a new self-reliance model for refugees in the country. This initiative aims to empower both refugees and their host communities to become less reliant on foreign aid and build sustainable means of supporting themselves.
The model was officially launched at the Oruchinga refugee settlement in Isingiro district. It complements the government's existing social-economic integration response plan, which aims to support refugees (70%) and host communities (30%) through various measures.
This new program comes at a crucial time, as the availability of traditional humanitarian aid has dwindled due to budget cuts. With the refugee population in Uganda continuing to rise (currently at 1.62 million), alternative solutions are urgently needed.
The self-reliance model focuses on empowering refugees by utilizing their existing skills and talents. This includes individuals with experience in entrepreneurship, engineering, teaching, and other fields. By providing them with the necessary resources and support, the program aims to equip them to continue contributing to their communities and support themselves and their families.
This collaborative effort between the WFP, the Ugandan government, and local communities represents a significant step towards promoting the long-term well-being of both refugees and host communities. By fostering self-reliance, the model seeks to alleviate pressure on foreign aid while simultaneously improving the overall livelihood and sustainability of these populations.