Urban refugees mark World Refugee Day with cultural gala

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Over 400 refugees living in various suburbs of Kampala commemorated World Refugee Day with a vibrant cultural gala under the theme Solidarity to Action.

The event took place at the headquarters of Young African Refugees for Integral Development (YARID) in Nsambya, Kampala, on June 20, 2025. Participants included refugees from South Sudan, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Afghanistan.

Ethiopian refugees showcased a variety of their foods during the cultural gala to commemorate the World Refugee Day. (Courtesy photo)

Excitement and ululations filled the air as different groups showcased aspects of their cultures, including marriage ceremonies, traditional foods, dances, attire, and leadership structures. They were joined by members of Uganda’s host communities, who displayed cultural elements from the central, northern and western regions.

The event was organised by YARID, a community-based organisation founded by refugees in Uganda, in partnership with Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), the Pilgrim Center for Reconciliation (PCFR), the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), and other partners in the refugee response.

Robert Ogali, head of programmes at YARID, thanked Ugandans for welcoming and showing hospitality to refugees. “Culture is an integral part of our existence and a kind reminder of who we are and where we come from,” he said.

He urged refugees to leave their painful pasts behind, support one another, and enjoy the safe and enabling environment provided in Uganda.

Bob Fred Mayonza, country director of the Pilgrim Center for Reconciliation in Uganda, said the cultural gala was a reminder that unity in diversity is not just a vision but a lived reality.

“We stand in solidarity with all displaced persons, recognising their strength, resilience, and contributions to our communities. Through art, music and dance, food and shared experiences, we reaffirm our commitment to healing, reconciliation and building bridges of hope,” he said.

Peace Mukayisire, a youth specialist from KCCA, thanked refugees for embracing and celebrating their cultures. “These celebrations are vital, although they come with mixed feelings. They can evoke both excitement and anxiety when you remember your home and what you went through,” she said.

Some of the refugees who attended the cultural gala to commemorate the World Refugee Day. (Courtesy photo)

She added that the government respects the dignity and potential of refugees, which is why it ensures a fair and secure asylum-seeking process. She noted that in Uganda, refugees are free to access social services such as education and healthcare and can also engage in business.

For example, Rejoice Aban, a South Sudanese refugee, plans to open a tailoring workshop after completing a course at YARID. She said, “Uganda is a friendly country with many business opportunities for refugees. I enjoy being here with my two children.”

According to the Office of the Prime Minister, Uganda currently hosts 1.7 million refugees and asylum seekers, with over 150,000 residing in Kampala. Of these, 51% are women and girls, while 57% are children, with 40% aged under 12 years.

This year’s national World Refugee Day celebrations were held in Kiryandongo district.