Breaking Stereotypes: Refugee Women in Uganda Seeking Opportunities Against All Odds

For many women in refugee settlements in Uganda, fleeing conflict and seeking a better life brings numerous challenges. In places like the Imvempi Refugee Settlement in the Terego district, resources are scarce, and opportunities seem elusive.

In the face of adversity, Poni Grace, who hails from Yei, South Sudan, found herself in the Imvempi Refugee Settlement at only 16 years old. Despite the rocky terrain and poor yields, Poni seized the opportunity to join the Second Chance Education and Skills Training programme, sponsored by UN Women and the Government of Japan.

Similarly, Annet Luka, the only woman carpenter at the Omugo II refugee settlement in the Adjumani district, defied gender norms to pursue carpentry training through the UN Women’s leadership programme supported by the Government of Norway.

Veronica Konga, a survivor of an abusive marriage, found hope in the LEAP programme in Adjumani, Uganda. Opting for metal fabrication training, Veronica saw an immediate impact as she sold her first product even before completing the program.

The LEAP programme, running in various refugee settlements in Uganda, including Yumbe and Kyegegwa, aims to empower women with leadership and livelihood opportunities, while ensuring a gender-responsive humanitarian and refugee response.