This week, Sweden’s Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa unveiled a new strategy aimed at providing long-term support to refugees in Uganda. The visit, which took place from March 17-19, marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to addressing the humanitarian crisis affecting millions of displaced people.
Uganda: Africa’s Largest Refugee Host
With nearly 2 million refugees residing within its borders, Uganda has become one of the most critical destinations for asylum seekers. The ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo has further strained the region, exacerbating the need for sustainable solutions to protect and support these vulnerable individuals.
Sweden’s Minister Dousa emphasized the importance of providing protection, access to healthcare, and essential supplies to refugees. “Swedish support makes a concrete difference in alleviating the humanitarian situation,” he said. “We’re committed to supporting Uganda through our new Strategy for Sweden’s development cooperation with Uganda 2025–2029, which aims to promote self-sufficiency among refugees.”
New Aid Strategy: Investing SEK 4.3 Billion
Over the next five years, the Swedish Government is investing a significant amount in global health initiatives, including maternal healthcare, contraception, and safe abortions. This investment is part of Sweden’s broader commitment to improving the lives of women and girls worldwide.
In addition to the new health-focused aid strategy, Sweden will also be supporting entrepreneurship and job creation programs aimed at empowering refugees. Mr. Dousa stressed the importance of strengthening women’s economic empowerment as a key component of his country’s development assistance efforts in Uganda.
Private Sector Engagement and Trade
As part of his visit, Minister Dousa met with business leaders to discuss ways to scale up trade exchange between Sweden and Uganda. The aim is to promote sustainable and green growth in both countries, aligning with Sweden’s broader ambition to reduce its carbon footprint.
Sweden’s development cooperation with Uganda will focus on key areas such as entrepreneurship, job creation, environment, climate, health, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), human rights, democracy, and gender equality. The new strategy totals SEK 1.5 billion for the period 2025–2029, building upon Sweden’s existing commitment to addressing these critical issues.
UN Support and Humanitarian Aid
Sweden’s support for global health initiatives will be bolstered by an investment of SEK 4.3 billion in global health programs. The country is a significant donor to UN agencies working to improve healthcare, education, and human rights in countries such as Uganda.
In conclusion, Sweden’s new aid strategy marks a significant shift towards providing long-term support to refugees in Uganda. By investing in sustainable development initiatives, promoting women’s economic empowerment, and scaling up trade exchange, the country aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of millions of people affected by conflict and displacement.
The visit underscores Sweden’s commitment to addressing global challenges and promoting human rights worldwide. As Minister Dousa emphasized during his visit, “Sweden will continue to support Uganda through our development cooperation efforts, aiming to create lasting positive change for the most vulnerable populations.”