from HASSAN ONYANGO in Kampala, Uganda
Uganda Bureau
KAMPALA, (CAJ News) – THE United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) requires over US$2 million to cater for the rising number of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) refugees living in Uganda.
Since January, Uganda has received 47 543 new arrivals from the DRC, which is facing mutiny from the rebel groups, mainly in the east.
“The growing intensity of new arrivals from DRC is overwhelming and has outpaced the available resources,” a UNHCR spokesperson said.
According to the UN refugee agency, overall, an estimated $600 000 is required to keep the Matanda and Nyakabinde transit centres operational.
Also, $1,2 million is needed to upgrade shelter and infrastructure in transit and reception centres in the Southwest, and $1,2 million in critical health gaps.
“An appeal for the DRC is being prepared to provide a comprehensive understanding of the needs,” the spokesperson stated.
In eastern neighbouring Uganda, there are three major entry points for the new arrivals from DRC, namely Kanungu, Kikuube and Kisoro.
– CAJ News