Minister Onek calls for  increased investment and collaboration to strengthen Refugee Settlements

By: Hellen Namale

KAMPALA

The Office of the Prime Minister, under the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework, hosted the 23rd Steering Group Meeting to update stakeholders on Uganda’s commitment to enhancing the self-reliance and resilience of Refugees and Host Communities.

Chaired by Hon. Lillian Aber, the Minister of State for Relief Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees, the meeting brought together key stakeholders, including Local Government representatives, Humanitarian organizations, and Government Ministers.

Hon. Eng. Hillary Onek addressing the 23rd CRRF Steering Meeting

During the engagement, Hon. Hillary Onek, emphasized the need for more investment in the settlements to provide essential goods, services and infrastructure. He called on both partners and the private sector to support the roll-out of a critical private sector engagement strategy aimed at boosting investments in refugee areas.

“I call upon partners and the private sector to support the roll-out of this important strategy. We need more investment in refugee settlements to provide goods, services, and infrastructure,” Onek said, stressing the importance of a unified approach to tackling these challenges.

Onek also highlighted the need for greater collaboration among the Ugandan Government, UNHCR, international donors, and NGOs to avoid duplication of efforts and ensure resources are optimized.

“Enhanced coordination among all stakeholders is essential to avoid duplication, let’s optimize our collective efforts and ensure that we remain focused on achieving our goals,” Onek emphasized.

Hon. Lillian Aber, Minister of State for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees attending the 23rd CRRF Steering Meeting

Hon. Lillian Aber expressed her gratitude to all Development Partners for their continued support and recognized their role in finding innovative solutions to refugee challenges.

“Together, through our collective efforts, we can continue to make meaningful progress despite the challenges we face,” said Aber.

Maria Håkansson, Sweden’s Ambassador to Uganda, acknowledged the successes in financing and self-reliance within the refugee response. However, she warned that escalating funding challenges are threatening to slow progress. With the regional situation remaining volatile, Ambassador Håkansson called for continued collective action to address these issues and support both refugees and host communities.

“As we reflect on the progress, we must also confront the serious challenges currently facing the refugee response in Uganda, particularly the funding challenges,” Håkansson stated. “It is essential that we regroup and strategize on how to tackle these challenges together, in support of refugees and host communities,” said Maria.

The meeting underscored the importance of maintaining and strengthening partnerships, coordination and strategic resource allocation to ensure a sustainable future for refugees and host communities in Uganda, despite the ongoing challenges.

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