Understanding Refugee Women at Risk Experiences in Light of Social Protection Initiatives and Policy Interventions in Uganda

AbstractThis qualitative phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of Congolese RWaR in Nakivale Refugee Settlement, Uganda. It traced their journeys from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)and the challenges faced during displacement. The research examined the risks they encounter, how they build resilience, and the impact of social protection efforts and refugee policies on their well-being. Results show that RWaR face multiple vulnerabilities, such as conflict-related sexual violence, exploitation, trauma, family separation, poverty, food insecurity, poor housing, detention, and limited healthcare access. These hardships lead to deep emotional distress, including depression, hopelessness, and suicidal thoughts. Displacement worsens their situation with unemployment, discrimination, and gender-based marginalization. Nonetheless, the women display remarkable resilience, relying on personal and community resources like faith, counselling, savings groups, small businesses, and community dialogue. These strategies bolster hope, coping skills, and pathways to self-reliance. The study highlights how policies and structural barriers affect their daily lives. Although Uganda’s Refugees Act (2006) and Refugee Regulations (2010) provide rights to work, movement, land, healthcare, and education, and humanitarian organizations offer cash aid, skills training, and psychosocial support, many obstacles prevent full access to these rights. These include lack of awareness, language barriers, documentation issues, bureaucratic hurdles, and weak policy enforcement. The study recommends specific policy reforms, trauma-informed programs, better resource distribution, and improvements in housing and food security. By amplifying the voices of Congolese RWaR, this research advances refugee, humanitarian, and gender studies. It provides a framework to assist governments, UN agencies, and humanitarian organizations in enhancing the well-being of women at risk and refugee women more generally.

Author dc:creator

• Massa, Dorothy

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• . H. Cook, Philip

• College of interdisciplinary studies

Language dc:language.iso

en_US

Identifier URI

https://doi.org/10.25316/IR-20964

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:null:10613/29437