Kampala, Uganda | THE BLACK EXAMINER | The government is currently exploring the option of borrowing $280 million from the World Bank to support districts that host refugees. Minister in charge of refugees and disaster preparedness, Hilary Onek, revealed this during his appearance before the parliamentary committee on presidential affairs. He informed the Members of Parliament that Uganda is providing refuge to more than 1.5 million individuals from 33 different countries and expressed concern about the inadequate funding for this cause.

In response to the MPs’ inquiries about the benefits of hosting refugees amid funding challenges, Onek emphasized that host districts have witnessed notable development in terms of infrastructure, including schools, which has left them in a better position compared to areas without refugee populations.

Onek further mentioned that negotiations with the World Bank are ongoing, with the hope of securing the funds as a grant. However, the World Bank is currently insisting that a portion of the funds should be in the form of a loan.

It’s worth noting that in 2021, Parliament approved a loan of 560 billion Ugandan shillings, equivalent to $150 million, to facilitate infrastructure development in communities that host refugees.

Additionally, Onek clarified that refugees in the country are permitted to engage in any legal business of their choice. Nonetheless, Makindye East MP Derrick Nyeko and Adjumani District Woman MP Jessica Ababiku expressed concerns about urban refugees and urged the minister to find a resolution to this issue.