The United Nations has allocated US$2.5 million in emergency relief to support Uganda’s escalating refugee crisis, driven by a dramatic surge in arrivals from conflict-affected regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), South Sudan, and Sudan.
The emergency funding, released through the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), will enable UNHCR, the World Food Programme (WFP), and UNICEF to deliver immediate life-saving assistance at Uganda’s overstretched refugee reception centres in Kabazana, Nyakabande, and Matanda.
Uganda, Africa’s largest refugee-hosting nation, has received over 65,000 new arrivals between January and May 2025—representing a staggering 600% increase from the same period last year. The total number of refugees in the country now stands at nearly 1.9 million.
Most new arrivals are traumatized, malnourished, and in urgent need of medical care, food, and protection after fleeing violent conflict and enduring dangerous journeys.
“We are grateful for this timely and urgently needed contribution,” said Leonard Zulu, UN Resident Coordinator in Uganda. “Our reception capacities are severely stretched, and this support will help us provide immediate assistance to thousands seeking protection. Sustained partnerships like this are critical to upholding Uganda’s progressive refugee policy.”
The funding will bolster humanitarian efforts for the first 14 days of a refugee’s arrival, covering food, nutrition, clean water, medical care, and child protection services.
“This CERF allocation will enable us to provide clean water, health care, and protection at reception centres operating far beyond capacity,” said UNHCR Representative Matthew Crentsil. “Swift support is essential to sustaining a coordinated emergency response.”
WFP emphasized the urgency of food aid, warning of looming shortages.
“This CERF funding is a lifeline,” said Marcus Prior, WFP Country Director. “It allows us to prevent a food crisis by delivering emergency nutrition support the moment refugees arrive.”
UNICEF echoed the alarm, particularly for children arriving in poor health.
“We are seeing children suffering from malaria and severe malnutrition,” said Robin Nandy, UNICEF Representative in Uganda. “This funding enables us to scale up emergency nutrition services and provide life-saving health care.”
The Government of Uganda welcomed the UN’s support, citing growing strain on national systems amid dwindling donor resources and rising humanitarian needs.
The cross-agency effort underscores the urgent need for international solidarity as Uganda faces one of Africa’s fastest-growing refugee emergencies.
