In a significant humanitarian setback, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has suspended food assistance for one million refugees in Uganda due to a severe funding shortfall. This crisis is largely attributed to substantial reductions in aid from the United States under President Donald Trump's administration, as well as cuts by the United Kingdom.
Uganda hosts Africa's largest refugee population, with 1.8 million individuals, including 60,000 new arrivals in the past three months. The WFP has reported critical malnutrition levels exceeding 15% in refugee reception centers. Previously, in March, the WFP had already reduced food relief, introducing rationing for new arrivals.
Uganda's Minister for Refugees, Hillary Onek, expressed concern over the country's capacity to manage the refugee burden without adequate international support. He warned of potential forced repatriations and increased violence as refugees struggle to meet basic needs.
The funding crisis has been exacerbated by Executive Order 14169, signed by President Trump on January 20, 2025, which paused all U.S. foreign development assistance programs for a 90-day review. This order led to the suspension of existing foreign aid programs, excluding only emergency food assistance and military aid to Egypt and Israel.
