Dire conditions plague Sudanese refugees in Uganda’s Kiryandongo camp
June 17, 2024 (KAMPALA) – Sudanese refugees in northern Uganda’s Kiryandongo camp are enduring dire conditions, including a lack of clean water, sanitation, and healthcare, according to Bakri Al-Jack, spokesperson for the Coordination of Civilian Democratic Forces (CCDF).
Al-Jack recently visited the camp on a personal initiative, prompted by reports of deteriorating conditions and safety concerns.
Located 400 km from the capital Kampala, the Kiryandongo camp houses thousands of Sudanese refugees who have fled the ongoing conflict in their homeland. Al-Jack described the camp as woefully inadequate, with flimsy tents vulnerable to harsh weather, insufficient food rations, and no access to basic healthcare.
“The refugees are unable to sustain themselves with the limited aid provided by the Refugee Affairs Office,” Al-Jack told Sudan Tribune. “The meagre rations of oil, corn, and salt are nowhere near enough to feed families for a month, forcing them to sell portions to afford necessities like medicine and clean water.”
Al-Jack also highlighted alarming reports of harassment and abuse targeting female refugees, including underage girls, as well as conflicts between Sudanese students and other refugee groups in local schools.
In response to the crisis, Al-Jack pledged to raise these concerns with the CCDF leadership and advocate for improved conditions in the camp. He outlined a multi-faceted approach, including collaborating with aid organizations to provide essential services, addressing the resettlement of vulnerable refugees, and working with authorities to ensure the safety and security of all camp residents.
The dire situation in Kiryandongo is not an isolated incident. Sudanese refugees across Uganda face similar challenges, highlighting the urgent need for increased humanitarian aid and sustainable solutions to address the ongoing refugee crisis.
Meanwhile, local organizations like Together for Peace and Development are stepping in to fill the gaps, providing food baskets, hygiene products, and other essential items to the struggling refugees. However, their efforts alone are insufficient to address the systemic issues plaguing the camp.