national 24 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)

World Vision to Invest Shs900 Billion in Uganda Amidst Rising Refugee Needs

World Vision Uganda is planning a significant Shs900 billion investment over five years, shifting its focus to refugee and high-need communities as donor funding faces increasing pressure. This strategic realignment follows 40 years of operations in the country. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/world-vision-plans-shs900b-investment-in-uganda-as-refugee-needs-rise-5608306

World Vision Uganda has announced ambitious plans to mobilize approximately Shs900 billion ($250 million USD) over the next five years, from 2026 to 2031. This substantial investment will primarily target humanitarian and development programs, with a strategic shift towards supporting refugee populations and communities facing the most critical needs.

According to Jeremiah Nyaga, National Director of World Vision Uganda, the organization is adapting its priorities after four decades of work in the country. The changing donor funding landscape has heightened the vulnerability of refugee communities, prompting this focused approach. Nyaga highlighted that Uganda hosts over two million refugees, with a significant portion, estimated at 64 percent, struggling with inadequate food supplies. Key areas of concern include food security, healthcare, and education.

This strategic pivot coincides with the closure of World Vision’s programs in four districts: Oyam, Kole, Omoro, and Gulu, where the organization had been active for an average of 18 years. These closures are part of a broader operational shift, moving resources to sub-counties identified as having more severe humanitarian needs. World Vision clarifies that this is not a complete withdrawal from these districts but a redirection of efforts.

Despite the program closures, local leaders in areas like Omoro District acknowledge the positive impact World Vision has had on household incomes and community development. However, they also note that many communities remain vulnerable and require continued support, a task now falling more heavily on the government.

World Vision’s new strategy aims to channel resources effectively to where they are most desperately needed, recognizing the growing constraints on international donor funding. The organization has previously supported hundreds of thousands of individuals and children through various initiatives in education, health, infrastructure, and agriculture during its 40 years in Uganda.