Sh3.7bn project launched to enhance refugee health in Uganda

On June 19, 2024, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Embassy of Japan in Uganda launched the Delivering Lifesaving Integrated Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights and Gender-Based Violence Interventions in Emergency (DELISiE) project at Rhino refugee settlement camp in Terego district.

Speaking at the project launch, Gift Malunga, the UNFPA country representative, expressed gratitude to the Government of Japan for their generosity towards the people of Uganda, noting that this was not the first project specifically aimed at refugees.

"The needs of refugees and host populations in DELISiE-operated areas remain urgent. In refugee-hosting districts, access to SRH services has become more constrained, particularly with the continued influx of refugees from Sudan and the ongoing threat of natural disasters such as heavy rains leading to landslides and floods," said Malunga.

Rhino Camp Refugee Settlement in Terego. Photo by John Musenze

She emphasised that the project is strategically positioned in border districts to serve as a primary point of contact and service provision for those fleeing crises. The DELISiE project will target disaster-prone and refugee-hosting districts in Eastern, Southwestern, West Nile, and Acholi sub-regions throughout 2024.

Malunga highlighted the project's aim to significantly impact the lives of women, girls, and communities, stressing the importance of ensuring tangible differences through their interventions.

Japanese Ambassador to Uganda Takuya Sasayama, on his first upcountry visit, praised the progress of the project, stating, "My mission today is to observe firsthand what's happening on the ground. Thank you for the coordination and progress we've seen."

Refugees receiving medical care and information with in their settlement. Photo by John Musenze

He underscored Japan's commitment beyond financial support, emphasising their goal to enhance safety, peace of mind, and well-being for those facing challenges in Uganda.

Sasayama emphasised the universal nature of refugee support, particularly evident in regions like Terego, where immediate assistance is crucial. He expressed Japan's willingness to share their experience in addressing refugee challenges for a better future.

The project aims to map all pregnant mothers in refugee settlements and disaster-prone districts. Following a rise in teenage pregnancies last year, UNFPA will implement a targeted approach for adolescent girls, empowering families with comprehensive information to prevent early pregnancies.

UNFPA country director Gift Malunga and Japanese Ambassador Takuya Sasayama after launching the project. Photo by John Musenze

DELISiE will also bolster Village Health Workers' efforts with additional supplies, including dignity kits for self-delivery and family planning resources within settlements. The procurement includes a 4x4 ambulance to assist expecting mothers experiencing complications during delivery.

The project will operate closely with the Government of Uganda and partners such as UNHCR, OPM, ACORD, and Peace Winds Japan.

Refugees in Uganda

Uganda's progressive refugee policy has made it the largest host of refugees in Africa and the third largest worldwide. Of these, 57% originate from South Sudan. However, the country's open-door policy faces strain due to continuous refugee influx since 2017.

Refugee women at Rhino Camp in Terego. Photo by John Musenze

Recent statistics indicate Uganda hosts up to 1.52 million refugees, predominantly from South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Since 2022, new refugee registrations have surged by 146,000, with the majority from the DRC (98,000 people). Over 80% of refugees reside in 13 districts across northern and southwestern regions, including Kampala.

Refugees live in settlements integrated with host communities, though COVID-19 lockdowns exacerbated income loss, straining both groups. Uganda's progressive laws benefit refugees and asylum seekers, offering legal protections amid their challenges.