The European Union (EU) plans to increase its humanitarian aid and development funding to Uganda in recognition of its generosity in hosting refugees. Jan Sadek, the EU Ambassador to Uganda and Head of the Delegation of European Union Ambassadors, has confirmed this. Sadek notes that the tourism, security, and agricultural sectors will benefit most from this funding, with Kisoro district being a major beneficiary.
The delegation of ambassadors has been in Kisoro for two days to assess the impact of the refugee influx in the country and the impact of the EU’s funding to various organizations on the ground, as well as to identify any gaps. Sadek commended Uganda’s favorable refugee policy and the country’s generosity in hosting large numbers of refugees and providing them with necessary care.
Sadek revealed that the EU is aware that Rwanda is supporting insurgencies in the Eastern DRC and has condemned it, warning that necessary funding will also be provided to ensure that the region realizes its plans to end the war against humanity. The EU has already started a partnership with the Ministry of Water and Environment, Uganda Wildlife Authority, National Forestry Authority, and other Non-Governmental organizations to support the ministries in different perspectives.
Sadek further disclosed that over 30 million Euros, close to 120 billion Ugandan shillings, has been allocated to support humanitarian agencies including UNHCR to support refugees and host communities. Part of this fund will be used to expand Nyakabande refugee transit center.
Kisoro RDC Hajji Shafiq Ssekandi confirmed that the EU would fund the construction of a tourist reception center in Kisoro town, a permanent 16km wall along Mgahinga National Park’s boundary with the community, UWA staff quarters in Mgahinga, visitors’ reception in Mgahinga, and road infrastructure.
He also noted that the EU has agreed to fund the process of gazetting Echuya forest into a baboon national park.
On the delegation’s last day in Kisoro district, the Ambassadors from Sweden and Denmark expressed their excitement at the area’s unique features. They pledged to return privately for tourism purposes, especially gorilla trekking, as another way of supporting Uganda. The EU is prepared to continue supporting its agencies and other NGOs in the district in the agriculture, finance, and service sectors, including humanitarian aid.
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