The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has received items and equipment worth Shs1.8 billion from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to help improve services for both refugees and the host community.
The donation included hospital beds, medical devices, computers, and motorcycles.
Speaking during the handover on Thursday 14th August, 2025, Kampala Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago said that the donation as part of efforts to ease the pressure on city facilities caused by the growing number of urban refugees.
“We assure you that these donations will be put to good use, supporting not only the refugee community but also the generous host communities within our jurisdiction,” Lukwago said.
However, Lukwago warned that the increasing influx of refugees into the city has placed a huge strain on infrastructure and social services, emphasizing the need for continued support.
UNHCR Country Representative, Matthew Crentsil, re-echoed the importance of strengthening collaboration with KCCA to address the challenges facing both refugees and local residents.
“These facilities are open to refugees and Ugandans equally, it’s necessary to enhance the capacities of these facilities to provide services to both the host community and refugees,” Crentsil said.
KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki said the donation would go a long way in addressing urgent needs in health, education, and other public services, allowing refugees and local residents to access opportunities on an equal footing.
“Here in Kampala, we open doors and hearts to families and individuals fleeing conflict and hardship,” she said
“This timely support will ease the pressure on our facilities and help ensure better services for all,” Buzeki added.
Uganda hosts over 1.9 million refugees, making it one of the world’s largest refugee-hosting countries, with 160,000 registered refugees currently living in Kampala.
