By Ganiko Samson Bullen

Obongi

Refugee communities in Palorinya settlement Obongi district have been urged to embark on agriculture as a solution to World Food Program (WFP) plans to reduction of food ratio and cash money due to financial challenges facing the globe.

Mr. Mpimabaza Samuel Hashaka, the Obongi Resident District Commissioner (RDC) urged the refugees to embrace commercial agriculture to address challenges associated with the food and cash reduction. “Now that we know there is going to be food and cash reduction, it’s high time we think outside the box by investing in Agriculture especial modern farming to support our survival in this economic hardships. Let’s use the tractors such that we can grow as much food as possible,” the RDC said.    

Hajji Buga Habib Khemis, the obongi district chairperson says the country (Uganda) is known for her hospitality in refugee management. He cited the open door refugee policy that protects and promotes the rights of refugees and asylum seekers in Uganda.

Mr. Ssentamu John Bosco, the Deputy Refugees Desk officer Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) noted good working relationship between the UNHCR and the partners.

In his remarks Jason Happs the Deputy UNHCR representative says their policy is to include refugees in the community programs. “Over the past years the United Nations High Commission for Refugees, development partners and the Ugandan government have been working together to develop projects to support refugees in Uganda,” Jason pointed.  He added that the host community have not been left out since they are part of the 30%.

Chris Engola who represented the partners says they are trying their best to improve the lives of both the refugees and the host communities.
However Gune Grace the vice Refugee Welfare Council One for zone two emphasized on unity.

The world refugee’s day 2023 was celebrated under the theme “Hope away from Home” on 20^th June. Currently Uganda hosts over 1.5 million refugees from south Sudan and DR Congo Of which Obongi district alone hosts a total of 123,000 refugees.

COVER PHOTO: Refugees gathered at a food distribution point in Obongi district recently By Ganiko Samson Bullen