Large numbers of Ugandans remain displaced and in desperate need. The numbers of IDPs in the camps have peaked to over 1.6 million. The approximately 200 camps in existence are largely under served. Residents basic needs are not met despite an unprecedented increase in assistance programmes under way. The government has recognised that all IDPs have the right to army protection and humanitarian aid, even in "non-recognised" camps.

Many Ugandans continue to live in fear. Every evening 44,000 children and adults ‘night commuters’ are moving into northern towns of Gulu, Kalongo, and Kitgum and returning home in the morning. They fear abduction by the Lord`s Resistance Army (LRA) for use as soldiers, sex slaves and porters. Some Ugandans now envisage improved security following an apparent weakening of the LRA since April 2004. Since then, the security situation has improved in Katakwi and Soroti districts and people have received food packages. Some security improvements in Acholi and Lira districts has also been noticed.

This appeal is a revision which now includes the second ACT member the Church of Uganda, who are intending to provide humanitarian assistance from the 1^st of April 2005 - March 2006 to IDPs in Kitgum, Pader, Lira and Apac which will be co-ordinated with LWF Uganda ACT members, Lutheran World Federation Uganda who have since January 2005 started working in Adjumani, Katakwi and Kitgum districts. This appeal addresses an expanded range of sectors such as nutrition, water, hygiene/sanitation, protection, essential relief items for resettlement, shelter, and food security.

In 2005, there is hope for peace and if this were to happen, the LWF Uganda and Church of Uganda would work with the IDPs to assist them in returning to their respective homes, albeit on a gradual basis, with close monitoring of the security situation.

Project Completion Date:

LWF: 31 December 2005

CoU: 31 March 2006

Jenny Borden
Interim Director, ACT Co-ordinating Office