Museveni, WFP officials discuss agric solutions for refugees
“If we adopted a more structured approach similar to building small campuses or villages, we could maximize land use, promote food production and even generate surplus for sale,” Museveni said.
President Yoweri Museveni (center) in a group photo with officials from the World Food Programme (WFP) at State House, Entebbe. (PPU photos)
AFP .
@New Vision
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Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni on Thursday called for a shift from traditional humanitarian aid to sustainable, agriculture-based solutions to support refugees in Uganda.
He made the call during a meeting with officials from the World Food Programme (WFP) at State House, Entebbe, according to a statement from the President's press team (PPU).
They discussed strategies aimed at enhancing refugee livelihoods and promoting self-reliance through efficient land use and organized agricultural activities.
“Uganda has always welcomed our displaced brothers and sisters, but we must now move beyond emergency response,” said Museveni.
“The challenge is that most refugee settlements are spread out inefficiently, with vast land occupied by scattered makeshift shelters. This hinders large-scale farming and economic activity."
'Better planning and infrastructure'
Uganda ranks among the top refugee-hosting countries globally, with over 1.8 million refugees and asylum seekers, primarily from the neighbouring countries of South Sudan, DR Congo and Burundi.
Museveni proposed a reorganization of refugee settlements into more compact, planned communities, which would free up land for collective farming.
“If we adopted a more structured approach similar to building small campuses or villages, we could maximize land use, promote food production and even generate surplus for sale,” he said.
Citing Nakivale Refugee Settlement in southwestern Uganda, which sits on 71 square miles of land, the President said that with proper planning and investment, such land could be transformed into productive farmland that supports both refugees and host communities.
“The land is there. What we need is better planning and infrastructure. This way, refugees can grow their own food, become economically active, and reduce their reliance on aid."
Museveni also noted that Uganda’s hospitality towards refugees stems from a Pan-African philosophy that sees displaced persons as part of the broader regional community.
“These people are not foreigners in the real sense. Many of them share ethnic and cultural ties with Ugandans. Our borders are artificial, drawn by colonialists. So, when they come here, we treat them as our own."
Officials from the WFP welcomed the President’s proposals and reaffirmed their commitment to working with the government to implement sustainable, development-oriented refugee support programs.
'Self-reliant and self-sustaining'
On her part, the WFP executive director Cindy McCain highlighted Uganda’s vast agricultural potential, noting that the WFP was optimistic about Uganda’s proposals to boost food production and empower refugee-hosting communities.
“The land here is very large and fertile. As WFP, we are confident in your proposal to create agricultural opportunities in these areas,” she said.
“The message we are taking back to both large and small donors is that Uganda is working to make these communities more self-reliant and self-sustaining.”
The WFP chief also praised Uganda for its progressive approach to refugee-hosting and its untapped agricultural potential, emphasizing the country's leadership in promoting self-reliance and sustainability among displaced populations.
She commended the Ugandan government's bold and compassionate refugee policies, noting that the world continues to look to Uganda as a model.
“We are impressed with how Uganda has boldly handled refugee resettlement.
“Many people come here seeking safety, and your government has opened its doors. It is a testament to your commitment to humanity and regional stability,” she added.
McCain also reaffirmed WFP’s commitment to continued partnership and support for Uganda's efforts in food security and refugee integration.
“We truly value our partnership and friendship with Uganda. We must support efforts that empower people rather than just pulling back aid."
'Innovative solutions'
Marcus Prior, the country director of WFP in Uganda, also praised his team for their efficiency and innovation in the face of limited resources.
“We have worked on innovative solutions to make our operations more efficient and ensure that we continue to use our resources wisely. The team here in Uganda is doing exceptionally well."
Prior further commended the strong collaboration between WFP and the Ugandan government, particularly the Office of the Prime Minister.
“We have an excellent working relationship with the ministry under Hon. Eng. Hilary Onek, and that collaboration is key to our progress,” he said.
Prior reiterated WFP’s ongoing commitment to ensuring refugees not only survive but thrive.
“We commend you for giving the refugees a chance to rebuild their lives. WFP will continue to explore every sustainable angle to ensure they survive with dignity and our support,” he added.
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