Stories
Uganda continues to receive new arrivals fleeing conflict in DRC and South Sudan
September 2026
UNHCR global website: Change site
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UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency works to ensure that everybody has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge, having fled violence, persecution or war at home.
Uganda hosts over 2 million refugees and asylum-seekers — the largest refugee population in Africa. The majority are from South Sudan (52%) and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (33%), with women and children making up 80% of the population [citation:4][citation:14].
Uganda maintains an open-door policy to asylum and has made significant commitments to refugee inclusion in national systems, including education, health, and livelihoods.
When conflict and violence force people to flee, UNHCR works with the Government of Uganda and partners to provide timely protection and life-saving assistance. This includes registration, emergency relief, cash assistance, and specialised protection services.
UNHCR works to safeguard the rights, safety and dignity of refugees, asylum-seekers, and other forcibly displaced people. Through community-based protection, child protection, and GBV prevention, we help ensure access to essential services and legal support [citation:5][citation:10].
UNHCR supports refugees to rebuild their lives and become more self-reliant. This includes livelihoods support, skills development, financial inclusion, and creating pathways for voluntary return or local integration in Uganda.
