Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — In a significant policy shift, Uganda has ceased the granting of asylum and refugee status to citizens from Eritrea, Somalia, and Ethiopia. This decision, announced by the Minister of Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees, Hilary Onek, comes amidst a backdrop of financial constraints and a growing number of refugees within the nation’s borders.
The rationale behind this change is twofold. Firstly, the government argues that the aforementioned countries are not currently experiencing active conflict, thereby rendering the need for asylum less pressing. Secondly, Uganda is grappling with dwindling donor support, which has significantly impacted its ability to manage the influx of refugees. The country has seen a steady rise in refugee arrivals, further straining its resources.
This new policy will not affect those who have already been granted refugee status. However, it does represent a notable departure from Uganda’s historically lenient approach to refugee admissions. The nation, which hosts almost two million refugees, the highest number in Africa, has traditionally been regarded as a sanctuary for those fleeing conflict and persecution.
The financial strain on Uganda is evident. Once receiving $240 million per year from the UNHCR, the funding has plummeted to less than $100 million, with only $18 million allocated in 2025. This reduction in funding has been compounded by the rising costs associated with hosting refugees, which currently amount to approximately Shs2 billion annually.
The decision to halt the granting of refugee status is also reflective of a broader regional trend. Uganda is in discussions with governments in conflict-affected countries to encourage the voluntary return of refugees. This approach is part of a larger strategy to address the complex issue of displacement in the region.
The impact of this policy change is likely to be profound. For those seeking refuge in Uganda, the closure of this door represents a significant setback. Meanwhile, the international community is closely watching how this move will affect the broader refugee crisis in the region.
Experts have raised concerns about the potential for increased human rights abuses and the exacerbation of the refugee crisis. The fear is that those denied entry into Uganda may be forced to seek refuge in neighboring countries, which are already grappling with their own challenges.
In conclusion, Uganda’s decision to halt the granting of refugee status to citizens from Eritrea, Somalia, and Ethiopia is a critical development in the region’s response to the refugee crisis. The move is driven by financial constraints and the belief that the conditions in the aforementioned countries no longer warrant the granting of asylum. However, it also raises questions about the future of refugee protection in the region and the potential for increased human rights abuses.
Source: The guardian
Additional reporting by ImNews
