Fleeing war, refugees return to Uganda—but find little relief

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The ongoing conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan have continued to force thousands of nationals to seek refuge in neighbouring Uganda.

According to Solomon Osakan, the refugee desk officer for Arua, a total of 2,987 refugees from both countries were received at the Ocea Reception Centre in the Rhino Camp refugee settlement between March and April 3, 2025.

However, Osakan said the centre is currently overwhelmed by the high numbers. He also noted that many self-settled refugees have joined relatives in Ugandan communities, although their exact number remains unknown.

South Sudanese refugees waiting to be allocated to various camps in Ocea reception centre in Madi Okollo district. (Photo by King Bosco Franco)

Armitage Basikania, the settlement commandant for Rhino Camp refugee settlement, said the arrivals have been ongoing since October last year, with refugees being reallocated to various camps. “The numbers are increasing every day,” he added.

Elhajj Mohamed Madi Djabakate, the senior protection officer in Arua, explained that a significant number of the new arrivals are actually returning refugees who had previously registered in Uganda.

“Many of them went back home but have returned after finding conditions unbearable in their countries,” he said.

One such returnee is Azonye Duzele, a Congolese refugee. She first came to Uganda in 2021 but returned home before being forced to flee again.

“Things are hard,” she said.

She recounted a harrowing experience where M23 rebels tortured her, placing her baby in hot water, causing severe burns. Her husband disappeared after the rebels targeted him for execution.

In January this year, Duzele attempted to flee through Bunagana, which is currently a hotspot for fighting.

A health worker immunizing a South Sudanese refugee after arriving at Ocea reception centre in Madi Okollo district. (Photo by King Bosco Franco)

Despite the risks, she managed to cross the Uganda-DRC border and boarded a vehicle to Ocea. Upon arrival, her fingerprints were scanned, and her previous refugee records appeared in the system.

She has since spent three weeks at the reception centre without necessities such as blankets and soap. 

“The only challenge I am facing now is that they should attend to my needs and ensure peace for my children,” she said.