Climate Change Intensifies Disputes Over Scarce Resources in Uganda's Refugee Settlements

Prolonged dry spells in Uganda’s West Nile region, attributed to climate change, are creating significant strain on natural resources, igniting conflict between refugees and host communities. Settlements like Rhino Camp and Imvepi are witnessing heightened competition over dwindling water supplies, as lower water tables reduce the effectiveness of boreholes.

Residents report long queues at water points, often beginning before dawn, with solar pumps producing only a trickle due to declining groundwater. This scarcity has led to disputes, sometimes escalating to physical confrontations, as desperate individuals vie for essential water resources.

The competition extends beyond water, with increased demand for land for cultivation, firewood, and thatching materials contributing to friction. Community leaders emphasize the critical role of dialogue in mediating these resource-driven disagreements, although the underlying pressure remains intense.

Development partners, including Oxfam Uganda, are highlighting climate change as a growing driver of insecurity in these areas. They advocate for integrated solutions that bolster resilience, foster inclusion, and promote sustainable peace amidst the escalating crisis. The challenges underscore the interconnectedness of environmental stress, livelihood security, and community stability in refugee-hosting regions.