Japanese Government Commended for Supporting Refugees in Uganda

The Ministry of Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees commended the Japanese Government for aiding refugees in Uganda with access to food and basic necessities.

Lillian Aber, the State Minister for Refugee Affairs, expressed gratitude for Japan’s generosity during a press briefing at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala.

She praised Japan’s consistent support for UN agencies addressing the refugee crisis, emphasizing its significant impact on the lives of displaced individuals.

Uganda, currently Africa’s largest refugee-hosting nation with 1.66 million refugees, continues to offer safety and hope to those fleeing conflict and persecution in the region.

Aber highlighted the financial strain of providing for refugees and lauded Japan for its ongoing assistance in ensuring vital services reach those most in need.

Japanese Ambassador H.E. Sasayama Takuya revealed that Japan’s support to the World Food Program since 2020 amounts to approximately US$ 11.4 million, including US$ 2.9 million in 2024 alone.

These funds are allocated to humanitarian efforts in refugee settlements and initiatives addressing hunger and malnutrition in the Karamoja region.

The funding will aid in meeting refugees’ food needs, supporting sexual and reproductive health for women and girls, and facilitating UNHCR’s provision of various services. Sasayama emphasized that Japan’s support has not only saved lives but also restored dignity and hope to those who have suffered loss.

Additionally, Japan donated 2,000 metric tonnes of rice in February 2024, valued at approximately UGX 8.5 billion, to provide meals for about 50,000 new arrivals expected in 2024 and 2025. UNHCR also received US$ 2.4 million toward Uganda’s Country Refugee Response Plan for 2024, adding to the US$ 1.6 million and US$ 4 million received in 2022 and 2023, respectively.

This underscores Japan’s enduring commitment as a key ally in providing humanitarian support to Uganda.