Uganda officially received the Refugee Host Country Leadership Award, which was presented to Eng. Hillary Onek Obalekor, Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees, and Hon. Lilian Aber, Minister of State for Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees. Ambassador Robie Kakonge, Uganda’s representative in Washington, D.C., brought the prestigious award home after receiving it at the Wilson Center in the United States.
While receiving the award, the ministers expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, reaffirming Uganda’s unwavering commitment to supporting refugees despite ongoing challenges. Minister Onek acknowledged the financial constraints** Uganda faces, particularly with declining donor support. “While we take pride in our achievements, we must recognize the difficulties ahead, especially as funding sources fluctuate,” he noted. “Nevertheless, Uganda remains committed to providing a safe and dignified environment for refugees.”
The award, which recognizes extraordinary leadership in refugee protection and self-reliance, highlights Uganda’s remarkable efforts in providing shelter, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities to over 1.5 million refugees, primarily from South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and other conflict-affected regions
The minister receiving the award.
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Beyond honoring Uganda’s efforts, the award also served as an opportunity to appreciate the international community’s contributions to the country’s refugee programs. Ambassador Kakonge emphasized the critical role of development partners, including the UNHCR and the World Food Program (WFP), in sustaining these initiatives. “This achievement is not Uganda’s alone. Our success is strengthened by the dedicated support of our partners,” she said.
Marcus Prior, representing the WFP, commended Uganda’s hospitality and resilience in managing the growing refugee population. “Uganda has provided hope for many, and we at the WFP are committed to continuing our support—not just with food aid but also in building sustainable partnerships,” he noted. He called for increased global support to ensure Uganda’s refugee programs remain viable.
The award was initially presented to Ambassador Kakonge in Washington, D.C., on March 6, in recognition of Uganda’s progressive refugee policies. While receiving the honor, she credited President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s visionary leadership, which has ensured Uganda remains a safe haven for displaced persons.
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“This recognition is a testament not just to Uganda’s policies but also to President Museveni’s inclusive approach to refugee management, which has earned international admiration,” Kakonge said. “Our commitment to human dignity, peace, and stability remains steadfast, even in the face of our own challenges.”
She also highlighted Uganda’s unique approach, which allows refugees access to land for agriculture, vocational training, and community integration programs. These initiatives enable refugees to rebuild their lives with dignity and self-reliance, making Uganda a model nation in refugee management.
In her closing remarks, Ambassador Kakonge reassured the government that Uganda’s humanitarian efforts have gained international recognition. “Out of many nations, only two were selected for this award,” she revealed. “Uganda’s leadership in refugee hosting is being celebrated globally, and we should take pride in this achievement.”
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Despite limited resources, Uganda remains a leader in compassionate and forward-thinking refugee policies. The government is committed to enhancing refugee livelihoods while working with international partners to sustain vital programs.
The Refugee Host Country Leadership Award not only recognizes Uganda’s past efforts but also serves as a call to action—reminding the world of the importance of solidarity, support, and shared responsibility in addressing global refugee challenges.
