Parliament Demands Clarity on Kitgum Refugee Settlement Plans

The Presidential Affairs Committee has pressed the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) for a detailed breakdown of plans, financial commitments, and implementation schedules before the government proceeds with establishing a new refugee settlement in Kitgum District. Chaired by Hon. Martin Ojara Mapenduzi, the committee raised concerns about the provision of crucial services like water, sanitation, and healthcare at the proposed Amida West sub-county site.

While acknowledging that the local community has offered 490 acres for the settlement, the committee highlighted that the OPM’s own assessments indicated potential gaps in basic amenities. “Latrines are supposed to be there. You need water sources. You need to have a medical facility, health facility,” stated Hon. Mapenduzi, emphasizing the need for clarity on who will provide these services, the associated costs, and when they will be delivered.

Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees, Hon. Sam Engola, assured the committee that preparations are underway, with significant support from development partners. He confirmed that UNHCR has been involved in mapping and demarcation, and a partner is committed to providing five boreholes before any refugees are relocated. Similarly, arrangements for latrines are in progress, and existing health centers are being supplemented by donor engagement, with UNHCR and UNICEF reportedly providing crucial support for water and sanitation.

The Minister stressed that refugees will not be moved to the site until essential facilities are fully operational, noting the urgency due to the approaching rainy season. The committee also took the opportunity to question the OPM about delays and incomplete projects under the previous Development Response to Displacement Impacts Project (DRDIP 1), summoning contractors involved in stalled infrastructure projects in other districts.

This parliamentary oversight aims to ensure that the establishment of new settlements is well-planned, adequately funded, and prioritizes the well-being of refugees and host communities. The committee expects time-bound plans to facilitate effective monitoring of the project’s progress.

Source: Parliament of Uganda