Refugee influx shakes Nakivale's soil and food systems: A Hidden crisis uncovered
Nakivale Refugee Settlement, located in southwestern Uganda, is one of Africa's oldest and largest refugee camps, hosting a diverse population of refugees primarily from the Great Lakes region.
Recently, Nakivale has experienced a significant increase in refugee arrivals driven by various push and pull factors. Addressing these dynamics requires coordinated regional peacebuilding, sustainable development initiatives, and enhanced support for both refugees and host communities.
The community-based organisation AFRICAN YOUTH INTEGRATED FOR SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (AYISD) has been actively supporting the residents of Nakivale with capacity building and agricultural programming for the past four years. Now, organisers are concerned with how to sustainably accommodate the new influx of refugees to the settlement.
This article explores the context and need for support to the community of Nakivale, and outlines entry points for activists and stakeholders who want to get involved!
Push Factors (Reasons Refugees Leave Their Countries)
Political Instability and Conflict: Ongoing conflicts in neighboring countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Burundi, Rwanda, and South Sudan have intensified. Political violence, civil wars, and systemic repression push civilians to seek safety elsewhere. Armed group activities, ethnic tensions, and government crackdowns create an environment of insecurity.
Violence and Human Rights Violations: Widespread violence, including massacres, sexual violence, and targeted killings, compels affected populations to flee for their lives. Reports of ethnic persecution and persecution of political dissenters escalate the desperation to escape.
Economic Hardship: Persistent economic crises, including unemployment, inflation, and lack of access to basic services, lead to poverty-induced migration. Droughts and environmental degradation further compound economic struggles, especially in rural areas.
Environmental Disasters and Climate Change: Increased frequency of droughts, floods, and other climate-related disasters diminishes agricultural productivity, causing food insecurity and displacement.
Persecution and Ethnic Conflicts: Ethnic tensions and targeted persecution of minority groups (e.g., Hutu, Tutsi, Nuer, etc.) lead to displacement within and across borders.
Perceived Lack of Durable Solutions Elsewhere: Limited prospects for voluntary repatriation due to unresolved conflicts or unstable political situations in origin countries.
Pull Factors (Reasons Refugees Choose Nakivale)
Established Refugee Infrastructure: Nakivale has a long-standing, relatively well-organised support system, including food aid, health services, and legal protection. The presence of humanitarian agencies providing assistance makes it a visible and accessible refuge.
Uganda’s Refugee-Friendly Policies: Uganda’s progressive refugee policies, including access to work, education, and freedom of movement, attract refugees seeking a better livelihood. The 2021 Refugee Act has improved legal protections and integration prospects.
Proximity and Accessibility: Nakivale’s strategic location near conflict zones in the DRC, Burundi, and South Sudan makes it a practical destination for those fleeing immediate danger.
Community Networks and Diaspora: Established refugee communities and family reunification encourage new arrivals. The presence of nationals from their home countries provides social support.
Perception of Security and Stability: Compared to their home countries, Nakivale offers relative safety and stability, which is a significant pull factor.
Availability of Basic Services: Access to healthcare, education, and livelihood programs incentivises refugees to settle long-term in Nakivale.
Global and Regional Political Climate: Ongoing conflicts and crises in neighbouring countries make alternatives less viable, channelling more refugees towards Uganda.
What does the refugee influx mean for the community?
Housing and accommodation: To accommodate the growing population, there is an urgent need for temporary and permanent housing. This results in the conversion of natural landscapes, such as forested areas, grasslands, and agricultural land, into settlement zones. The construction often involves clearing trees and vegetation, leading to deforestation and habitat loss.
Local Food Systems: Refugees often engage in small-scale farming to sustain themselves, which leads to increased cultivation of available land. Due to a lack of alternative options, agricultural activities typically involve slash-and-burn practices or monoculture, which further depletes soil nutrients and destroys native vegetation, making these food systems unsustainable. Moreover, a sudden rise in population elevates demand for staple foods, which strains the existing local agricultural systems.
Dependence on Food Aid: Many refugees rely heavily on food assistance programs, which can be inconsistent or insufficient, leaving vulnerable populations exposed to hunger and malnutrition. Overdependence also hampers the development of autonomous local food systems. Moreover, staple grains are often the most readily available item in aid packages, reducing the dietary diversity needed for health and resilience.
Land Pressure and Land Use Changes: Refugees must often settle on available land, including pastoral areas, forests, and traditional farmland, resulting in significant land fragmentation. This changes land use patterns, reduces the productivity of native farms, and causes soil degradation, ultimately decreasing local food production capacity. Sometimes, land occupied by refugees overlaps with the land used by local communities. This displacement hampers local farmers' ability to cultivate their land, leading to reduced food availability for host populations and increased food insecurity.
Introduction of New Agricultural Practices and Crops: Refugees often bring diverse farming knowledge and crops; however, introducing unfamiliar farming practices may not always integrate smoothly into local ecosystems, potentially disrupting traditional land management and reducing overall productivity.
Economic Constraints and Livelihood Disruptions: The increased burden on local markets reduces the availability of affordable food for host communities. Limited livelihood options for refugees and locals alike further reduce purchasing power, exacerbating food insecurity.
Pressure on Markets and Supply Chains: Local markets face increased demand, leading to inflation in food prices, which adversely affects both refugees’ and host communities’ access to affordable, nutritious foods. The surge in population complicates food distribution logistics, requiring expanded storage facilities, transportation, and distribution networks. Inadequacies result in food wastage, delays, and resource misallocation.
Health and Sanitation: Overcrowded settlements with inadequate sanitation facilities increase vulnerability to foodborne illnesses, waterborne diseases, and malnutrition, further stressing health systems.
Limited Resources for Sustainable Agriculture: Insufficient access to inputs like quality seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation reduces the capacity for sustainable farming practices that could mitigate land degradation and improve food security. The community needs and deserves support to establish autonomous food systems that meet the needs of residents.
Balancing Humanitarian Needs with Environmental Conservation: Intensive farming by refugees coupled with overgrazing and deforestation accelerates environmental degradation, which undermines the long-term sustainability of local ecosystems and agriculture. Striking a balance between providing immediate relief and preserving environmental resources is complex. Unsustainable resource exploitation risks creating a cycle of environmental destruction and food insecurity.
About AYISD
In the heart of Nakivale Refugee Settlement, a movement was born—not in a boardroom or a high-rise office, but under the shade of a tree, where 2 young refugees with a vision refused to let circumstances define their future.
On February 15, 2021, their vision became a reality. The organisation was officially registered by Isingiro District local government as BIINGI TAI NYEME (KBTN), meaning "Unity is Strength." As a community-based organisation, the name reflected our core belief that no one should struggle alone.
Today, the organisation is federally recognised and registered by the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), as AFRICAN YOUTH INTEGRATED FOR SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (AYISD).
Our mission is to empower young refugees and create self-sufficient communities. AYISD works to promote:
Environmental conservation initiatives
Sustainable agriculture & food security programs
AYISD welcomes all refugees and members of host communities in Uganda, empowering individuals across nationality, social status, and gender, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to rebuild their lives.
Initially fueled by private donations, AYISD’s impact grew quickly. In 2023, it became one of the first refugee-led organisations to win the UNHCR Refugee-Led Innovation Grant. This funding helped launch the Seed Program, supporting youth in sustainable agriculture and livelihood development.
What began as a classroom under a tree has sprouted into the community. Today, over 5500 children have received education through the initiative, and over 3000 people in the community have been impacted by our work in the environmental sector
Policy Implications and the Need for Integrated Solutions
Uganda has made significant strides in development efforts, with policies aimed at improving social welfare, economic growth, health, and education. However, despite these initiatives, numerous gaps persist within the policy framework that hinder the full realisation of youth and sustainable development goals. Organisations such as AYISD, which focus on youth empowerment, social development, and policy advocacy, face challenges stemming from these gaps. Addressing these shortcomings and leveraging the policy space can significantly advance AYISD’s work, and active stakeholder involvement is crucial for sustainable progress.
Gaps in the Current Ugandan Policy Framework
Limited Youth-Inclusive Policy Development: While Uganda has policies targeting youth employment, health, and education, genuine youth participation in policymaking remains limited. Most policies are top-down, with minimal consultation or involvement from the youth themselves. This results in policies that may not fully reflect youth needs, aspirations, or innovative ideas.
Inadequate Implementation and Enforcement: Many policies exist on paper but suffer from weak implementation mechanisms due to limited resources, corruption, or lack of political will. This gap diminishes their effectiveness, especially in areas critical to youth empowerment such as education, employment, health, and civic participation.
Fragmentation and Lack of Coordinated Policy Approach: Uganda's policy landscape is often characterised by fragmentation, with overlapping mandates among government agencies. This disjointed approach complicates effective service delivery, leading to inefficiencies, duplication of efforts, and missed opportunities for comprehensive youth development programs.
Insufficient Legal and Policy Frameworks for Emerging Issues: Emerging challenges faced by youth - such as digital literacy gaps, mental health concerns, substance abuse, and rights related to digital privacy - are inadequately addressed within existing policies. There is a need for updated legal frameworks that respond to these contemporary issues.
Marginalisation of Youth, Women, persons with disabilities, refugees, and youth from rural or impoverished backgrounds often find their needs marginalised. Current policies lack specific provisions to address their unique barriers, reducing their access to opportunities and justice.
Financing and Resource Gaps: Chronic underfunding of youth programs severely limits the scope and scale of interventions. The absence of dedicated financial allocations for youth-centric policies hampers progress and innovation.
How the Ugandan Policy Space Can Support AYISD
Institutionalising Youth Participation: Policy reforms should institutionalise meaningful youth participation at all governance levels. Creating youth advisory councils, inclusion in policy-making committees, and mandated consultations can ensure that youth voices influence policies affecting their lives.
Strengthening Implementation and Accountability: The policy space should enhance monitoring, evaluation, and accountability mechanisms, ensuring that policies are effectively implemented. This could include establishing dedicated agencies or units responsible for youth policy enforcement.
Promoting a Holistic and Coordinated Policy Approach: Developing integrated national frameworks for youth development can improve coordination among government ministries (e.g., Education, Health, and Gender). Inter-ministerial task forces or platforms can streamline efforts and resource allocation.
Updating and Expanding Legal Frameworks, the legal framework should be updated, expanded, and reviewed to address emerging issues like digital rights, cyberbullying, mental health, and gender-based violence, empowering organisations like AYISD to advocate for relevant legal reforms.
Enacting Specific Policies for Vulnerable Youth: Dedicated policies or gender-sensitive, disability-inclusive provisions can address the unique challenges faced by marginalised youth groups, enabling their full participation in social, economic, and civic life.
Allocating Adequate Resources: Increased budgetary allocations specifically targeting youth programs are essential. Establishing financing mechanisms that promote innovation and scalable youth-led initiatives can bolster AYISD’s capacity to deliver impactful programs.
How Other Stakeholder Groups Can Get Involved and Support AYISD
Government Agencies: Government departments can foster partnerships with AYISD by integrating youth-focused activities within their operational plans, providing technical support, and recognising youth-led initiatives in policy frameworks.
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and Development Partners: CSOs can collaborate with AYISD through capacity-building, resource mobilisation, and joint advocacy campaigns. International agencies and donors can support through funding, technical assistance, and knowledge sharing.
The Private Sector: Businesses and entrepreneurs can partner with AYISD by offering mentorship, internships, and funding opportunities, and by adopting youth-friendly policies within their operations.
Educational Institutions: Universities and schools can facilitate youth engagement by integrating civic education, supporting youth research projects, and providing platforms.
Recommendations from our youth-led CBO
As the Nakivale Refugee Settlement continues to serve as a vital humanitarian hub, hosting diverse populations fleeing conflict, environmental crises, and socio-economic upheavals, it becomes imperative to adopt a multifaceted and holistic approach to strengthen peacebuilding, regional collaboration, and sustainable development. The following strategic recommendations are designed to foster durable solutions, enhance regional cooperation, and promote resilience, creating a more stable and prosperous environment for refugees and host communities alike.
Strengthen Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding Initiatives within Source Countries: The root causes of displacement—conflict, political instability, and economic hardship—must be addressed through comprehensive, multi-stakeholder peacebuilding efforts. This involves supporting diplomatic dialogues, community-based reconciliation processes, and development programs that foster social cohesion. Encouraging international partnerships and leveraging local peacebuilders will be crucial to creating conducive environments for voluntary repatriation and long-term stability.
Enhance Regional Cooperation on Migration Management: Given the transboundary nature of migration, regional cooperation frameworks—such as those facilitated by the East African Community or the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)—should be strengthened. This includes harmonising policies on border management, asylum procedures, and data sharing, as well as conducting joint operations to combat human trafficking and smuggling. A coordinated regional approach not only streamlines migration management but also ensures that interventions are culturally sensitive and contextually appropriate.
Improve Integration and Livelihood Programs in Nakivale: Sustainable integration hinges on empowering refugees through tailored livelihood initiatives and skills development programs aligned with local market needs. Implementing vocational training, entrepreneurial support, and microfinance schemes will foster economic self-reliance. Additionally, strengthening community engagement and fostering intercultural dialogue are essential to building social cohesion and reducing xenophobia.
Support Environmental Resilience and Climate Adaptation Measures: Nakivale's environmental sustainability is vital for its future resilience. Initiatives should include sustainable water management, reforestation projects, renewable energy adoption, and environmental education campaigns. These measures not only protect natural resources but also mitigate environmental risks that exacerbate displacement and undermine livelihoods.
Promote Durable Solutions: To realise durable solutions, it is imperative to uphold and facilitate voluntary, informed, and safe repatriation processes supported by comprehensive reintegration programs. Resettlement opportunities should be expanded for particularly vulnerable populations, while further investment in local integration—improving access to education, healthcare, and employment—will foster inclusive, peaceful communities.
Call to Action
To all stakeholders—governments, international agencies, civil society, and the private sector—this is a collective imperative. By amplifying our efforts to resolve conflicts at their roots, strengthening regional cooperation, and investing in sustainable integration and environmental resilience, we can transform Nakivale from a refuge of necessity into a beacon of stability and hope. Let us commit to actionable partnerships, innovative solutions, and unwavering dedication to uphold the dignity and rights of every individual.
Together, we can forge a future where peace prevails and livelihoods thrive.
Urgent Appeal: Join Us in Supporting Refugees in Nakivale Amidst Growing Challenges
Dear Compassionate Partners and Supporters,
As the world faces ongoing regional unrest, economic downturns, and climate-induced environmental degradation, the plight of vulnerable populations continues to deepen. Nakivale Refugee Settlement, one of Africa’s largest refugee camps, is experiencing an unprecedented influx of displaced individuals, primarily women, children, and the elderly, fleeing conflict and instability. Today, we turn to you with an urgent plea to help us meet this critical humanitarian need.
Your Donation Matters Now More Than Ever
Despite the overwhelming scale of need, funding cuts and dwindling resources threaten to undermine vital support systems at Nakivale. Your generosity can bridge the gap, providing life-sustaining aid to families who have lost everything and restoring hope in environments fraught with hardship.
The Impact of Your Support:
Food Security and Nutrition: Donations will ensure consistent food supplies, reducing malnutrition and hunger among vulnerable populations. Every meal funded translates to a step toward dignity and stability for families.
Shelter and WASH (Water, Sanitation, Hygiene): Contributions will help improve shelter quality and sanitation facilities, creating safer, healthier spaces that prevent the spread of illness and support dignity.
Environmental Sustainability: Donations directed toward environmental programs will promote sustainable waste management, tree planting, and renewable energy initiatives, mitigating environmental degradation and fostering resilience within the settlement.
Why Every Donation Counts
Your support directly enhances the livelihood of the most vulnerable—children attending school, women building new lives, and weakened elders regaining hope. It helps foster a resilient environment where refugees can reclaim their independence, build skills, and nurture their potential, despite the adversity surrounding them.
Join Us in Creating a Global Wave of Compassion
This is a pivotal moment that calls for unity and compassion. Your generosity demonstrates that we are stronger together—caring for those in need reflects our collective humanity. By donating today, you are not just offering aid; you are igniting hope, restoring dignity, and demonstrating that no one is forgotten in times of crisis.
How You Can Make an Impact
Make a one-time gift or set up a recurring donation.
Sponsor specific programs—education, health, or environmental sustainability.
Share this appeal within your community to amplify our collective reach.
Together, we can turn the tide of despair into a future full of hope. Each contribution, no matter the size, is a vital step toward transforming lives and ensuring a more compassionate, resilient world.
Thank you for your unwavering compassion and support.
With gratitude,
African Youth Integrated For Socio-Economic Development (AYISD)
Email: mkalombo@ayisduganda.org / mbilizikalombo123@gmail.com
Whatsapp: +256779092464
