news 22 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
ICC Tackles High Victim Expectations and Hurdles in Shs226 Billion Ongwen Reparations Rollout
The ICC has registered over 19,500 victims for reparations totaling over €52 million (Shs226 billion) in the Dominic Ongwen case, with the Trust Fund for Victims mobilizing funds internationally due to his indigence. Challenges include fraud, extortion scams, and contact issues amid soaring expectations. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/icc-faces-victims-high-expectations-challenges-as-shs226-billion-reparations-begin-5432410
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has hit a key milestone in reparations for victims of ex-LRA commander Dominic Ongwen, registering more than 19,500 individuals. Only around 500 have undergone full eligibility checks, requiring proof linking their experiences to the case’s crimes.
Judges ordered over €52 million (roughly Shs226 billion) in reparations on February 28, 2024. Since Ongwen lacks funds, the Trust Fund for Victims (TFV) must raise money from global donors. Eligible victims will get a €750 symbolic payment, plus support for livelihoods, mental health, and memorials.
Significant obstacles persist, including victims’ lofty hopes and scams where fraudsters pose as ICC reps to extort money—despite the process being free. Maria Mabinty Kamara, ICC Public Information and Outreach Coordinator, addressed these at a Lira City stakeholders’ dialogue on April 22, 2026.
“We received those concerns in some communities,” Kamara said, noting efforts with local leaders to counter fake claims and fabricated stories. Safeguards are in place to detect suspicious activities, and communities are urged to protect the process.
Reaching eligible victims is tough too, as many listed outdated or borrowed phone numbers that are now inactive. The ICC is adapting by asking for multiple contacts and using form helpers for tracing.
Updates were also shared on the Joseph Kony case, with charges confirmed for a potential swift trial if he’s captured, as northern Uganda advances toward restorative justice.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)