The Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) in collaboration with the Belgian Red Cross Flanders have launched a two-year Humanitarian Protection 2 project to support vulnerable communities.
The launch event, held at the Kyangwali refugee settlement, included the ceremonial laying of a foundation stone for a new women and youth center, marking a significant step towards enhancing support for refugees in the region.
Among the distinguished guests were URCS Secretary General, Robert Kwesiga, and Belgian Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Chantry Hugues, along with local camp and Hoima district leaders and various partners.
The presence of these key stakeholders underscored the importance of the project and the shared dedication to humanitarian causes.
URCS Secretary General, Robert Kwesiga, emphasized the critical role of the upcoming women’s and youth center in bolstering the resilience of refugees, particularly in light of recent cuts to funding and essential support services.
He expressed gratitude to the Government of Belgium for its consistent support, enabling URCS to fulfill its mandate of providing sustainable humanitarian assistance to those in need.
Belgian Ambassador H.E. Chantry Hugues commended URCS for its efforts in addressing Uganda’s blood shortage through voluntary blood donation campaigns.
He pledged ongoing support for URCS’s humanitarian initiatives, recognizing the organization’s dedication and effectiveness in addressing challenges faced by refugees.
The Humanitarian Protection 2 project aims to benefit over 90,000 refugees and individuals in host communities across Western and Northern Uganda.
Key components of the project include non-conditional cash and voucher assistance, menstrual hygiene management, prepositioning of relief items, first aid training, blood donor recruitment, hygiene and sanitation education, community-based surveillance, construction of essential facilities like the women and youth center, housing for persons with special needs, solar-powered water systems, mobile clinic restocking, family reunification efforts, and education on international humanitarian law.
The launch of Humanitarian Protection 2 follows the successful completion of its predecessor, Humanitarian Protection 1, reflecting a continued commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable populations and promoting sustainable development in Uganda.
