Journal
Metropolitan Journal of Academic and Applied Research
MJAAR
Uganda's Refugee Policy And Regional Stability In Host Communities: A Case Study Of Nakivale Refugee Settlement In Isingiro District, Uganda
Kabasinguzi Priscilla, Kiwanuka Rashid
| Journal | Metropolitan Journal of Academic and Applied Research (MJAAR) |
| Volume / Issue | Vol. 5, No. 9 |
| Published | 30 September 2026 |
| ISSN | 3006-6417 |
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between Uganda's refugee policy and regional stability in host communities, using Nakivale Refugee Settlement in Isingiro District as a case study. The study was guided by three objectives: to examine the key features of Uganda's refugee policy as implemented at Nakivale, to assess the effects of the settlement on stability in host communities, and to establish the challenges facing the policy's implementation. A descriptive case study design combining quantitative and qualitative methods was proposed, targeting refugee households, host community members, local government officials and staff of the Office of the Prime Minister and UNHCR implementing partners operating in Nakivale. Data were to be collected using structured questionnaires, key informant interviews and focus group discussions, alongside review of settlement administrative records. The results presented in this paper are illustrative, prepared to demonstrate expected findings and analysis, and are not derived from actual data collection. The illustrative findings suggest that Uganda's self-reliance-oriented refugee policy has generally supported peaceful coexistence and shared access to services in Nakivale, while also generating tensions over land, natural resources and competition for social services between refugee and host populations. The study concludes that the policy's stability outcomes are mixed and recommends strengthened investment in shared infrastructure, conflictsensitive land governance and expanded livelihood support for both refugees and host communities.
Keywords
Uganda's Refugee Policy
Regional Stability and Host Communities
Cite This Article
Kabasinguzi Priscilla & Kiwanuka Rashid (2026). Uganda's Refugee Policy And Regional Stability In Host Communities: A Case Study Of Nakivale Refugee Settlement In Isingiro District, Uganda. Metropolitan Journal of Academic and Applied Research, 5(9). https://journals.miu.ac.ug/pages/article.php?article_id=1865
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