+256 772 911 693
+256 758 911 693 Call our Hotline for Crisis Situations
24 hours 7 days a week 1 HOUR RESPONSE GUARANTEE

Governance, Protection & Human Rights

The Governance, Policy and Advocacy (GPA) unit at KRC-Uganda has transitioned into the Governance, Protection and Human Rights (GPH) unit. The shift was driven by evolving socio-political and humanitarian conditions in Uganda, especially the increasing vulnerabilities faced by refugees, women, and youth. The new GPH unit aims to address these challenges more holistically, aligning it to KRC-Uganda’s mission to build empowered, resilient, and rights-conscious communities, This change reflects an expanded focus moving beyond policy advocacy to include protection mechanisms and human rights interventions.

Its objectives include:

  1. Promote and protect the rights of women, youth, refugees, and minorities by addressing abuse, exploitation, and exclusion.
  2. Strengthen governance systems to be more accountable, transparent, and responsive at both community and institutional levels.
  3. Foster a rights-conscious and active citizenry that participates in decision-making and holds leaders accountable.

By integrating governance with human rights and protection, the unit ensures citizens can meaningfully engage in public life, free from violence, discrimination, or rights violations

The unit interventions include, promotion of human rights, community mobilization, capacity building, research, advocacy and empowerment of youth among others. These interventions are strategically implemented in the districts of Fort Portal City, Kabarole, Kamwenge, Kitawengenda, Kasese and Refugee settlements.

View some of our field pictures

Loading…

  • KRC Staff attends a coordination meeting with OPM and UNHCR

  • KRC staff facilitates a psychological first aid session with new arrivals at Nyakabande Transit Center

  • KRC supports a parent and her children to onboard a bus to relocate to Nakivale Refugee settlement

Our Objectives are: –

  1. Promote and protect the rights of women, youth, refugees, and minorities by addressing abuse, exploitation, and exclusion.
  2. Strengthen governance systems to be more accountable, transparent, and responsive at both community and institutional levels.
  3. Foster a rights-conscious and active citizenry that participates in decision-making and holds leaders accountable.

By integrating governance with human rights and protection, the unit ensures citizens can meaningfully engage in public life, free from violence, discrimination, or rights violations

The unit interventions ie., community mobilization, capacity building, research, advocacy among others  are implemented in the districts of Fort Portal City, Kabarole, Kamwenge, Kitawengenda…etc. refugee settlements.

Articles from the Field

Keeping Peace as a Priority Amidst Political Support Mobilization in Preparation for the 2026 General Elections

Keeping Peace as a Priority Amidst Political Support Mobilization in Preparation for the 2026 General Elections

The electoral season often comes with heightened efforts by political parties and candidates as they seek support from citizens. These efforts typically take the form of campaign rallies, one-on-one meetings, daily social media updates, and radio talk shows all aimed at attracting voter support. While such platforms are meant to communicate pledges and policy positions, they are frequently characterized by defamatory messages that undermine the credibility of opponents. Unfortunately, little or no attention is given by these parties to ensuring that their campaign activities do not contribute to undermining peace, credibility, and cohesion during and after the elections. As Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections, it is crucial that all actors that is political parties, candidates, and their supporters understand and appreciate that despite the diversity in ideologies, policies, and opinions, they are ultimately united by a common goal: building a peaceful and stable nation. Elections, by their very nature, are a contest of ideas and visions for the country’s future. However, this contest should not be allowed to breed hostility, hatred, division or conflict among citizens. Instead, it should serve as an opportunity for constructive engagement where differing perspectives are debated with respect and utmost tolerance. Every political party and candidate enters the race with a manifesto highlighting a set of commitments they believe will improve the lives of citizens once they are entrusted with power. While these manifestos vary, they are all rooted in the same aspiration of addressing challenges facing the common citizen be it poverty reduction, job creation, quality education, healthcare, or infrastructure development. Yet, many actors forget that none of these commitments can be meaningfully realized without a peaceful environment. Violence, intimidation, hate speech voter bribery or electoral malpractice not only undermine the credibility of elections but also destabilize communities, erode trust in institutions, and delay the very progress candidates promise to deliver. It is therefore essential for all stakeholders to recognize that peace is not an option but a prerequisite for democracy and development. Campaign strategies, public rallies, media engagements, and even online communication conducted to mobilize political support must be guided by principles of fairness, inclusivity, and respect for opponents. Political actors must rise above the temptation to use divisive language, hate speech, or personal attacks, because while these may yield short-term political gains, they create long-term wounds in society that are difficult to heal. Supporters, too, must understand that their responsibility goes beyond cheering for their candidates; they must also uphold discipline, reject violence, and engage in dialogue when disagreements arise. Ultimately, the measure of success in the 2026 elections will not only be about who wins but also about whether Uganda emerges stronger, more united, and more peaceful after the process. It is in this spirit that all parties, candidates, and citizens should place peace at the center of their political actions, remembering that a shared future can only be built in an environment free from violence and fear. Compiled by Kihumuro Ainebyona – GPH In the image above: Leaders from Rwenzori region signing the Peace cloth, committing to be agents of peace, before, during and after 2026 election period

1. Oct 2025
posted by admin
Response to the Influx of Refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo at Nyakabande Transit Centre.

Response to the Influx of Refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo at Nyakabande Transit Centre.

In response to the recent influx of refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Kabarole Research and Resource Centre (KRC), in consortium with World Vision Uganda and Plan International, and with support from START FUND, has been actively delivering comprehensive protection services to address the urgent needs of affected populations at Nyakabande Transit Centre. Child Protection: KRC has prioritized the protection of vulnerable children, especially unaccompanied and separated minors. Through timely case management, family tracing, and the establishment of child-friendly spaces, these children have gained access to psychosocial support and safe environments that promote their well-being and development. Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Response: Recognizing the heightened risks of GBV during displacement, KRC has implemented survivor-centered GBV response mechanisms. These include referrals for medical and legal assistance, and the provision of confidential safe spaces where women and girls can access counselling, peer support, and protection services with dignity and respect. Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS): MHPSS has been a cornerstone of our emergency response. Our trained teams have provided Psychological First Aid and facilitated structured psychosocial support activities, helping individuals cope with the trauma of conflict and displacement. These services have contributed significantly to promoting resilience, healing, and recovery among the affected populations. Logistical Support: To ensure timely and safe relocation, KRC also supported the logistical coordination and transportation of Persons of Concern from the Bunagana border to the Nyakabande Transit Centre, enabling them to access critical humanitarian assistance. Through these coordinated efforts, KRC and its partners remain committed to protecting the dignity, safety, and rights of refugees and host communities in this time of crisis.

15. Apr 2025
posted by admin
Addressing Land Access Challenges in Bidibidi Refugee Settlement: The Role of Community Peace Keepers

Addressing Land Access Challenges in Bidibidi Refugee Settlement: The Role of Community Peace Keepers

Uganda is grappling with land access challenges in refugee settlements due to reduced funding and food ration cuts. These challenges have had a severe impact on vulnerable refugees with limited income, many of whom struggle to afford land for cultivation as an alternative means of food production. In Bidibidi Refugee Settlement, where renting half an acre of land costs between UGX 70,000 and UGX 150,000, many refugees find it nearly impossible to secure farmland. Despite these challenges, KRC-Uganda’s Community Peace Keepers, trained under the EU-Land Project with funding from the European Union, have played a pivotal role in managing land-related conflicts in Yangani and Abiriamajo Clusters. Through mediation and counselling sessions at the community level, they have successfully de-escalated tensions, providing inclusive conflict resolution that involves both refugees and host community members. Key Land Issues in Bidibidi Refugee Settlement The primary issues surrounding land access in Bidibidi Refugee Settlement include: High rental costs that make land unaffordable for refugees.  Multiple landowners claiming the same land. Fraudulent land transactions, where the same piece of land is rented out to different tenants. Poor land quality, with refugees allocated rocky or unsuitable land for cultivation. Stray domestic and vermin animals are destroying crops. Boundary conflicts between individual landowners and institutions such as schools, mosques, churches, and local government authorities.  Youth involvement in land-related disputes, sometimes through deception or manipulation. These issues have led to frequent conflicts between refugees and host communities, threatening peaceful coexistence and food security. KRC-Uganda’s Community-Based Approach to Conflict Resolution To effectively address these challenges, KRC-Uganda has established robust community-based structures that facilitate conflict identification, reporting, and resolution. These structures involve representatives from the refugee and host communities, ensuring inclusivity in decision-making. Key interventions include: Conflict Early Warning (CEW) System – Reports on land disputes are logged into an online system, generating analytical reports that guide stakeholders on appropriate actions. https://krc-earlywarningsystem.com/ Community Mediation and Counselling – KRC-Uganda Peace Keepers conduct mediation sessions, enabling affected parties to discuss grievances, acknowledge missteps, and find mutually acceptable solutions.  Case Referral for Complex Disputes – Criminal and highly complex cases are referred to relevant authorities for further action. Impact of Peacekeeping Efforts Through continuous mediation and awareness creation, land-related conflicts have significantly reduced in Yangani and Abiriamajo Clusters. Community Peace Keepers play a key role in ensuring landowners and tenants remain accountable, reducing instances of fraudulent land transactions and disputes. Mrs. Unia Atai, a Peace Keeper and Woman Representative in Yangani Cluster, shared her perspective:“Our work as Peace Keepers has truly reduced land-related conflicts in our communities. Both landowners and tenants are now more cautious, knowing that any fraudulent transactions can be easily exposed and addressed.” Understanding the Root Causes of Land Disputes Several factors continue to fuel land-related tensions in Bidibidi Camp Refugee Settlement, including:  Competition for scarce resources such as land, water, and firewood.  Unclear land ownership and usage rights, leading to disputes over control.  Population growth, as refugee families reunite and the host community expands. Cultural and language differences, which sometimes hinder communication and mutual understanding. Religious diversity occasionally contributes to misunderstandings and disagreements. While progress has been made, continued efforts are needed to ensure sustainable land access and peaceful coexistence. Strengthening community peace structures, enhancing land governance mechanisms, and providing alternative livelihood options for refugees will be crucial in preventing future conflicts and fostering long-term stability. By Francis Happy Muhindo Peace and Conflict Manager BidiBidi Refugee Settlement

1. Apr 2025
posted by admin
Uganda Expands Rhino Camp to Accommodate Growing Refugee Population

Uganda Expands Rhino Camp to Accommodate Growing Refugee Population

Uganda faces a growing influx of refugees, specifically from South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The increasing numbers have put pressure on existing settlements, leading authorities to open new zones in Rhino Camp, located in the West Nile region. The new zones opened are Wanguru and Zone 8 in Madi Okollo DistrictAccording to the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Rhino Camp, which already hosts thousands of refugees, has been stretched beyond capacity. The continuous arrival of asylum seekers has necessitated the expansion of settlement areas to provide adequate shelter, food, and essential services. Many new arrivals cite ongoing conflict, political instability, and economic hardships in their home countries as the main reasons for seeking refuge in Uganda. While the Ugandan government has maintained its open-door policy, the strain on resources such as water, healthcare, and education remains a growing challenge.Humanitarian organizations are increasingly worried about the sustainability of support services as the number of refugees continues to rise. Agencies such as the World Food Programme (WFP) have faced funding shortages, which have impacted the food rations provided to refugees. Additionally, local communities near Rhino Camp are expressing concerns about land use and environmental degradation resulting from the growing population. OPM, UNHCR, and implementing partner organizations participate in negotiations with host communities for land to settle refugees Despite these challenges, Uganda remains one of the most welcoming countries for refugees in Africa. Efforts are underway to secure more funding from international donors to support the expanding refugee population and ensure that new zones in Rhino Camp are well-equipped to accommodate those in need. By: Kamuli Jacinta Maria        Ease Project Officer-Steps

31. Mar 2025
posted by admin
Bank Loan Transforms a Single Mother’s Life, Helping Her Rebuild and Start Business

Bank Loan Transforms a Single Mother’s Life, Helping Her Rebuild and Start Business

Noella Nyirahabimana is a 32-year-old Congolese refugee living in the Kyaka 2 refugee settlement.  She is also a single mother of 4 children and is a member of the Maendeloe savings and credit association. Noella and her children survive on cash rations and daily transactions she makes in a market in Kakoni village. She buys small produce from wholesalers in the market and resells it to meet the daily needs of her household. Noella displays her produce in front of her house When the VSLA group secured a second loan of 5 million shillings from Equity Bank in July 2024, Noella borrowed 200,000 shillings. She stated that this support came at a critical time, as her house’s roof had been blown away during a heavy downpour. Using the borrowed money, she purchased a plot of land for 200,000 shillings to make a fresh start. Additionally, through her group savings, Noella was able to acquire a tarpaulin for 100,000 shillings, which she used to put a temporary roof over her home. In August 2024, Noella used her savings of 100,000 shillings to start a small business to supplement her income. With this money, she purchased one bag of dry cassava for 50,000 shillings to produce and sell flour. She also spent 20,000 shillings to buy fresh cassava, which she used to prepare Kwanga, a popular Congolese delicacy. “I now earn a profit of 15,000 to 20,000 shillings per week. This is a significant improvement for me because, previously, the income I made from buying and reselling farm produce was entirely spent on meeting daily household needs like food,” emphasised Noella. A closeup look at the ‘Kwanga’ wrapped in banana leaves and dry cassava remnants from her business. “This loan has enabled me to start a business and rebuild my home. I can pay the monthly loan installment of 20,000 shillings, but I believe seasonal loans would be more manageable, as paying monthly can be challenging. If I can secure another loan, I plan to expand my farming activities to improve my life. “I am deeply grateful to KRC-Uganda for their linkages, which have been instrumental in transforming my life for the better, noted Noella” By: Edlyne Kakibogo Project Assistant Young Africa Works-Kyegegwa District

7. Feb 2025
posted by admin
Empowering Refugees Through Communication: Radio Distribution In Rhino Camp Refugee Settlement

Empowering Refugees Through Communication: Radio Distribution In Rhino Camp Refugee Settlement

In the heart of Rhino Camp Refugee Settlement, where thousands of displaced individuals navigate the challenges of daily life, a transformative initiative is reshaping how communities connect with the world around them. As part of the Sustainable Transition to Locally Led Emergency and Protection Services (STEPS) project, KRC-Uganda, with funding from the European Union Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid (ECHO), has distributed portable radios to refugees, offering a lifeline of information and hope. This initiative, known as BE THERE, is empowering communities through the simple yet powerful medium of radio, providing access to essential information and fostering a sense of belonging among displaced populations. STEPS Project team distributing radios to beneficiaries in Rhino Camp refugee settlement Bridging the Information GapIn refugee settlements, access to timely and reliable information is often limited, leaving many unaware of critical updates related to health, safety, and available resources. The distribution of radios addresses this gap by providing refugees with access to news broadcasts, educational programs, and public service announcements. For those without smartphones or internet access, these radios serve as an indispensable tool for staying informed and connected. Fostering Community and Cultural ConnectionsBeyond disseminating information, radios play a significant role in strengthening community ties and preserving cultural identity. Refugees far from home find solace in music, talk shows, and storytelling programs broadcast in their native languages. “Hearing songs from my country makes me feel less alone,” shares Fatima, a refugee from South Sudan. “It reminds me of home and gives me hope.” Enhancing Education and AwarenessRadio programming has proven to be an effective platform for promoting public health education. Messages on hygiene, vaccination campaigns, and mental health awareness are reaching wide audiences, contributing to healthier communities. For children unable to attend formal schools, educational broadcasts offer an alternative to continue learning, ensuring that no child is left behind. Challenges and the Path ForwardDespite its impact, the initiative faces challenges such as ensuring equitable distribution, providing solar-powered radios for sustainability, and developing culturally relevant programming. However, with optimism and a commitment to empowering communities, KRC-Uganda and its partners remain dedicated to overcoming these hurdles.  “A simple radio is more than a device; it’s a beacon of hope, a tool for education, and a reminder that the world hasn’t forgotten our communities”, noted one of the beneficiaries. A Testament to the Power of CommunicationThe radio distribution in Rhino Camp Refugee Settlement stands as a testament to the transformative power of communication in times of crisis. By connecting individuals to vital information, education, and cultural content, this initiative is restoring dignity, fostering resilience, and bringing light to communities in need. Together, we are bridging gaps, strengthening communities, and empowering refugees to navigate their journeys with hope and confidence

29. Jan 2025
posted by admin

Click to read Governance, Protection & Human Rights

Top