Finn Church Aid & Government of Uganda Launch China-Funded Humanitarian Assistance Grant Project (CHAP) to Support New Refugee Arrivals

The Government of the People’s Republic of China has, for the first time, provided a USD 1 million contribution for humanitarian assistance to support refugee response efforts in Uganda.

The funding is channeled through the Government of Uganda – Office of the Prime minister, and the project will be Implemented by Finn Church Aid (FCA) Uganda.

The project will support new refugee arrivals in Nakivale and Kyangwali refugee settlements, South Western Uganda.

The launch event, held on 22nd April 2026, at the Office of the Prime Minister in Kampala, was officiated by Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of Uganda.

Other officials included Hon. Eng. Hilary Onek, Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees; Hon. Okello Oryem Henry, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Hon. Lilian Aber, Minister of State for Disaster Preparedness; Commissioner for Refugees Mr. Patrick Okello from the Office of the Prime Minister; and the Charge d’Affaires ad interim of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, Mr. Fan Xuecheng, alongside other government officials and partners.

Speaking during the event, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja appreciated the Government of China for its partnership with Uganda, especially at a time when global humanitarian funding is reducing.

She noted, “The project adopts an integrated approach with a strong focus on psychosocial support, community engagement, and fostering social cohesion as key pillars in building resilience and promoting peaceful coexistence.”

The project aims to strengthen emergency humanitarian response services for vulnerable refugee families, with a focus on dignity, protection, psychosocial wellbeing, and child-friendly support services at reception points and settlements.

Mr. Fan Xuecheng from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Uganda noted that while China has long supported Uganda’s development agenda, this project marks an important step in extending that support to humanitarian response efforts, reinforcing China’s commitment to addressing emerging needs in the country.

Mr. Wycliffe Nsheka, Country Director of FCA Uganda, said, “The project will ensure that new refugee arrivals receive immediate support through hot meals, psychosocial care, dignity kits, and play materials for children.”

“We will also strengthen child protection systems, create safe and safe spaces for families, and work closely with partners to improve coordination and timely delivery of humanitarian services at reception centres and settlements,” Mr. Nsheka added.

The initiative reflects a shared commitment by the Government of Uganda, the Government of the People’s Republic of China, and FCA to ensure that refugee families arriving in Uganda are met with dignity, protection, and coordinated lifesaving support.

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Text: Linda Kabuzire