news 7 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Japan pledges nearly $6 million to boost Uganda's refugee support programs amidst funding shortfall
The Japanese government has provided close to $6 million to UN agencies in Uganda to bolster refugee assistance, including food, protection, and livelihood programs. This aid arrives as international humanitarian funding dwindles, impacting Uganda's capacity as Africa's largest refugee host. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-secures-6m-japan-support-for-refugee-response-amid-funding-crisis-5451018
Uganda, which hosts over 1.9 million refugees, has received a significant financial boost from Japan. Nearly $6 million (approximately Shs22 billion) has been channeled through the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), and the World Food Programme (WFP) to support vital humanitarian efforts.
This contribution comes at a critical juncture, with global humanitarian funding experiencing a notable decline, affecting traditional donors. Uganda, facing renewed influxes of refugees from Sudan, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, has seen its refugee response operating under severe budget deficits.
The funds will address several key areas, including enhancing refugee protection systems, expanding nutrition services, and improving registration processes. A portion will also aid newly arrived asylum seekers with essential services like emergency cash assistance, healthcare, and non-food items.
Innovative initiatives are also planned, with the IOM set to establish solar-powered community energy hubs in Yumbe District. These hubs aim to foster economic self-reliance by supporting agriculture, small businesses, and providing access to energy in both refugee settlements and host communities.
The WFP will utilize its share to provide emergency food and nutrition assistance, with a particular focus on vulnerable mothers and children.
Despite this crucial support, UNHCR warns that the Uganda Country Refugee Response Plan remains severely underfunded, highlighting the ongoing challenges in meeting the needs of refugees and host communities. Japan’s Ambassador to Uganda, Takuya Sasayama, reiterated his country’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s development and humanitarian agenda, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation.