What we do

This is what we do

The Local Empowerment And Development (LEAD) Uganda project, funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and led by Woord en Daad, is dedicated to empowering refugees and host communities across Uganda. Uganda, one of the world’s largest refugee-hosting nations, faces significant challenges, including a lack of access to livelihoods, limited educational opportunities, and insufficient inclusion in decision-making processes for both refugees and their host communities. The LEAD Uganda project addresses these challenges by providing long-term, sustainable solutions that focus on empowerment and development.

Our goals

We aim to create communities where both refugees and host populations have equal access to opportunities for education, employment, and self-reliance. Through partnerships with local organisations, we strengthen the capacity of in-country actors to lead initiatives that enhance community resilience, foster economic growth, and promote inclusive governance.

The challenges we address

Refugees and host communities in Uganda are often economically vulnerable, with over 90% of refugees living under severe stress conditions. They face a lack of access to essential services, including vocational training, job opportunities, and representation in policy-making processes. Host communities, too, frequently struggle with limited resources, which can lead to social tensions.

Our approach

Capacity Strengthening: LEAD Uganda focuses on equipping local organisations with the skills, resources, and support needed to effectively serve their communities. Through direct funding, training, and mentorship, we empower local partners to create lasting change.

Economic Empowerment: By providing vocational training, business support, and access to market opportunities, we promote economic self-reliance. Our goal is to create pathways for refugees and host communities to build sustainable livelihoods and reduce their dependency on aid.

Inclusive Policy Engagement: We advocate for inclusive policy-making by engaging local governments, civil society organisations, and the refugees themselves in national and international dialogues. By ensuring that their voices are heard, we work towards policies that address the specific needs of both refugees and host communities.

Our impact

Our interventions are designed to create a ripple effect of sustainable, positive change. By fostering collaboration and empowering local actors, LEAD Uganda is helping build a future where refugees and host communities coexist peacefully and thrive together. This project is a crucial step towards a more inclusive and resilient Uganda.