ADRA Uganda has shared the impact of its REAL project, a two-year initiative aimed at improving food security and building resilience for 5,880 refugees and 2,520 host community members in Kyaka II and Rwamwanja refugee settlements.
Funded by DANIDA, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark, Novo Nordisk Foundation, FAHU Foundation, Justesen Foundation, and ADRA International, the project has implemented interventions such as Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), Farmer Market Schools (FMS), and Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices.
Speaking at the dissemination workshop, REAL Project Manager Jerry Kiwanuka said, “The REAL project has been transforming lives in Kyaka II and Rwamwanja refugee settlements, with a goal of improving food security and building resilience by 2026.”
The project has recorded notable achievements, including the formation of 70 VSLAs — 35 in Kyegegwa and 35 in Kamwenge — accumulating total savings of UGX 480 million, representing an 80% increase.
ADRA’s MEAL Manager, Farida Nakato, noted that the loan portfolio also grew from Shs231 million to Shs330 million, enabling more people to invest in businesses rather than just household needs.
Farmers have adopted climate-smart agricultural techniques, growing vegetables, rearing goats, and increasing food production sustainably.
Beneficiary Anyesi Nyirasabimana, a 52-year-old Rwandan refugee, said, “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 findings on the impact of the project, highlighting the synergies and trade-offs of VSLAs, FMS, and CSA practices on livelihood resilience.
The workshop was attended by local government officials, including Assistant Settlement Commandant Christopher Angualia and Kamwenge District Commercial Officer Dennis Kiiza Mwiru.
The REAL project will hold its final dissemination event at Makerere University on December 4, 2025, where research findings and lessons learned will be shared.
Key Highlights:
- 5,880 refugees and 2,520 host community members benefited
- 70 VSLAs formed (35 in Kyegegwa, 35 in Kamwenge)
- Total savings reached Shs480 million, an 80% increase
- Loan portfolio grew from Shs231 million to Shs330 million
- Farmers adopting climate-smart agriculture, boosting food production