World Refugee Council’s Allan Rock visits Uganda’s refugee settlements
Honorable Allan Rock, a member of the World Refugee Council has visited South Sudanese refugees in Uganda’s settlements.
During his visit to Moyo and Adjumani districts’ refugee settlements, the former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada met and interacted with refugee groups supported by LWF with funds from the Canadian government through the Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR).
Among groups visited were business groups and persons with special needs who received free modest shelters. Jonglei Goat Rearing Group and an art and crafts group were some of the business groups that interacted with Hon. Rock.
While interacting with Hon. Rock, members of business groups described how their livelihoods are improving with the income they earn and the challenges they are facing like unfriendly climate for agriculture. He discussed potential marketing opportunities for their products and the possibility of expanding their advertising campaigns in his home country – Canada.
Hon. Rock also visited and interacted with a foster mother caring for unaccompanied minors in Ayilo settlement. She received a free modest shelter which she says has improved their standards of living.
Honorable Rock also visited the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) and humanitarian staff from LWF and UNHCR in Moyo and Adjumani districts to extend his gratitude towards the Government of Uganda and humanitarian organizations for their hospitality and assistance towards refugees.
“We open our hearts and arms to refugees because we are all children of God. Besides, its South Sudanese seeking our relief today, but it might be us seeking it tomorrow.” Okot Johnson, OPM Deputy Settlement Commandant in Adjumani district told Hon. Rock.
“How deeply impressed we are with the Government of Uganda, the people of Uganda, and your generosity toward refugees” Hon Rock Okot. He praised Uganda for setting an admirable refugee policy that has set a standard for the rest of the world.
Honorable Rock appealed to the international community to join Uganda in receiving and extending help to refugees. “I believe that it is not just the responsibility of countries like Uganda to provide for the massive displaced persons, but rather an international responsibility…let’s hold our international donors more accountable for their pledges.”
