The ongoing conflict in South Sudan has created a major refugee crisis, with millions displaced both internally and across borders. The crisis has been exacerbated by factors like food insecurity, climate change, and the impact of the Sudanese conflict, with many seeking refuge in Uganda. Uganda is a major refugee-hosting country, particularly in Africa. It currently hosts over 1.7 million refugees and asylum seekers, making it the largest refugee-hosting nation in Africa. The majority of these refugees are from South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The conflict has forced millions to flee their homes, with a significant number seeking refuge in Uganda. Host communities in Uganda are struggling to integrate the large numbers of refugees, leading to overstretched resources and services like shelter, healthcare, and water sanitation. The crisis has created a dire humanitarian situation, with millions in need of assistance and protection. The conflict in South Sudan and the related displacement crisis remain ongoing, with a need for sustained humanitarian support to refugees and host communities.

The Foundation for Community Development and Empowerment (FOCDE) is currently implementing a project “Humanitarian Action for Supporting Refugees (HASURE). The three-year project aims at providing immediate assistance and long-term support to individuals and communities displaced by conflict, persecution, or violence. The project encompasses a wide range of services, including shelter, food, healthcare, education and livelihood support, all aimed at ensuring the dignity and well-being of refugees.

The project aims at;

• Providing essential resources like shelter, food, and medical care to refugees in immediate need.
• Offering education, vocational training, and other opportunities for refugees to develop skills and gain employment.
• Ensuring the safety and security of refugees, including protection from violence and discrimination.
• Working towards integrating refugees into host communities, empowering them to become self-sufficient and contribute to society.

The project is being implemented in Northern Uganda and the region hosts a significant number of refugees. The project is being implemented in host communities in districts of Adjumani, Lamwo, and Yumbe. The project also targets several refugee settlements in the northwest region, due to the influx of refugees from South Sudan and other countries. Some of the major refugee camps in this area include Bidibidi, Pagirinya, Rhino Camp, Palabek, and Palorinya

Project Services

1. Emergency Relief-Providing immediate shelter, food, and medical assistance to refugees in camps or displacement situations.
2. Education and Training-Offering educational opportunities and vocational training to help refugees gain skills and employment.
3. Livelihood Support-Providing financial assistance, micro-loans, and other resources to help refugees start businesses or find employment.
4. Integration Services-Helping refugees integrate into host communities by providing language classes, social support, and other resources.
5. Security and protection-Ensuring the safety and security of refugees, including protection from violence and discrimination.
6. Human Rights Awareness-ensuring refugees have the same rights as Ugandan nationals. The project addresses issues like employment, child rights, refugee status determination, land rights, family rights and tenant rights. The project involves capacity building for policymakers and human rights advocacy.

Project Contact Information;

Foundation for Community Development and Empowerment (FOCDE)
Northern Uganda Regional Office,
Gulu City Mall, Plot 56/57 Gulu Uganda
Tel +256-705439533
E- Mail-info@focdeug.org