Over 1,700 DRC Refugees Pour into Kyangwali Settlement

More than 1,771 Congolese refugees fleeing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have arrived at the Kyangwali Refugee Settlement in Kikuube District after undergoing security and health screenings. 

This group, primarily women, children, and the elderly crossed into Uganda via Lake Albert last week, joining over 8,000 refugees who have fled into Kikuube. 

They were initially received at the Sebigoro transit center in Kabwoya Sub-County before being transferred to Kyangwali. Their arrival brings the total number of new refugees in Kyangwali to 3,815 in just two weeks.

The refugees come from conflict-hit areas in Bunia District, Ituri Province, including Joo, Thoroges, Nyamamba, Kasenyi, Tchomia, Datule, Kafe, and Muvaramu.

According to Tophious Chali, the Settlement Commandant, more refugees continue to arrive, putting pressure on the settlement’s limited resources such as food, land, and health services. She has called for urgent government intervention to address the growing humanitarian needs.

Some refugees have settled in surrounding communities at Kyakapere, Sunzu, Kyabasambo, and Songa landing sites, with many living in makeshift shelters or sleeping outdoors. Uganda has been a major destination for Congolese refugees fleeing tribal clashes, particularly between the Lendu and Bagegere communities.

In February 2018, over 6,000 refugees arrived at Sebigoro and Nkondo Reception Centers before being relocated to Kyangwali. In October 2021, another 1,000 Congolese refugees crossed through Lake Albert due to ongoing violence. With the conflict in eastern DRC persisting, Uganda continues to receive large numbers of refugees, as the government and international agencies work to support them.