Kampala, Uganda – Uganda has taken a significant step towards enhancing refugee response with the development of the country’s Refugee Response Localization Strategy.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The initiative was spearheaded by Permanent Secretary at the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), Alex Kakooza, and Executive Director of the Centre for Refugee Resettlement and Forced Migration Studies (CRRF), Hellen Bugari, who co-chaired the development process on Friday, May 9, 2025, at the Golden Tulip Hotel.
This strategic move comes at a critical time, given that Uganda hosts one of the largest refugee populations globally.
The strategy aims to empower communities by leveraging local networks, knowledge, and proximity to foster ownership, cohesion, and resilience among refugees and host communities.
Mr. Kakooza emphasized the importance of localization, noting that it recognizes the crucial role of local and national actors in responding to refugee needs.
He confirmed that the approach aligns with the Grand Bargain commitment and the pledges made at the December 2023 Global Refugee Forum, underscoring the significance of localizing refugee response efforts.
According to Hellen Bugari, the development of Uganda’s Refugee Response Localization Strategy is a testament to the country’s commitment to improving the lives of refugees and host communities.
She emphasized that by empowering local communities and leveraging their knowledge and networks, the strategy seeks to promote sustainable solutions to refugee challenges.
The initiative is expected to enhance the effectiveness of refugee response efforts in Uganda, ensuring that the needs of refugees and host communities are addressed in a more coordinated and sustainable manner.
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