Strengthening Mechanisms for Receiving, Managing and Integrating Involuntary Migrants Within the Municipal Council
Arua, Uganda
Mayor
Wadri Sam Nyakua
Start of Project
05/02/2019
End of Project
2021
Overview
The project looks at the representation of urban migrants and refugees on the Arua City Development Forum, Representation of migrants and refugees on school management committess and provision of internship for Refugee Students. Capture the needs of refugees in the City Development Plan and Budget, incorporate refugees on Parents Teachers Association (PTA) of City Schools, both primary and secondary since City education services are non-discrimatory, Providing internship opportunities to refugees in tertiary and other higher institutions of learning to obtain practical skills and experience in various fields.
Reported Impact [as of November 2025]
Key achievements include the establishment of a market space, the Tondeka micro-finance facility, representation into City Development Plans III and IV, and facilitating access to dignified livelihood opportunities for migrants, refugees and host communities.
Despite funding gaps and policy constraints limiting formal recognition of urban refugees beyond Kampala, Arua’s approach demonstrates how locally led planning and partnerships can advance self-reliance, social cohesion, and inclusive urban development.
Call to Local Action - Priority Objectives
Improving migration governance and forced displacement protection
Providing access to urban infrastructure, social services, and education regardless of status
Realising socio-economic inclusion