By Charles Katabalwa
KAMPALA
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has donated essential items worth UGX 1.8 billion to support refugees living in Kampala City.
The package includes 100 patient beds, a digital X-ray machine, five motorcycles, 64 computers, 6,400 exercise books (96-page), 4,800 quire books, 16,000 pencils, 160 geometry sets, 50,000 sanitary pads, and 100,000 pairs of ladies’ underwear. The donation aims to boost healthcare, education, and livelihoods for refugees in the capital.
While handing over the items to Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and KCCA Executive Director Sharifa Buzeki, UNHCR Representative in Uganda, Matthew Crentsil, said the support is meant to address the pressing needs of urban refugees.
“This donation is a testament to our commitment to supporting vulnerable populations, including refugees, and promoting their well-being and self-reliance,” Crentsil said. He added that UNHCR plans to sign a memorandum of understanding with KCCA to make such contributions annually.
Lord Mayor Lukwago hailed the initiative, saying it would significantly improve the quality of life for refugees in the city. Buzeki noted that the support will help reduce pressure on services provided to Kampala residents.
Uganda hosts more than 1.7 million refugees and asylum seekers, the largest number in Africa, with 160,000 living in Kampala, according to UNHCR.
