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Your support is needed now more than ever as the number of refugees and internally displaced people worldwide has reached a record high.  

Imagine arriving in a new country with little more than hope.

That’s the reality for over 1.7 million refugees and 50,000 asylum seekers in Uganda. Among them, 80% are women and children who have fled unimaginable hardships, seeking safety and a fresh start. Yet, even in the safety of refugee settlements, they face daunting challenges.

Despite Uganda's progressive refugee policy, there are still many barriers for those trying to rebuild their lives, especially for women and girls who have long been denied education, economic independence, and the right to advocate for themselves.

Many of these women arrive in Uganda with limited access to schooling and job training. Without basic education or vocational skills, they lack the resources to secure a livelihood, let alone cover essentials like food, water, and clothing.

That’s why Juliet founded the Community Transformation Agenda (COTA) inside the Ivempi refugee settlement. 

Since 2018, ActionAid has been working in the Kiryandongo, Rhino and Imvepi refugee settlements in northern Uganda, working with women and young activists who are advocating for their rights, leading their communities and creating economic opportunities for themselves.

Supported by ActionAid, COTA’s mission is to empower refugee women and girls across Uganda. Through leadership and economic empowerment workshops, COTA gives them the tools to advocate for their rights, address social injustices, and step into leadership roles.

“We are proud to say that a number of women that have taken leadership positions [have done so] through our training,” Juliet says. “We believe that women’s issues are now being discussed in the community.”

COTA also offers vocational training in soap-making, sewing, and farming—skills that allow women to gain financial independence by securing jobs or even starting their own businesses.

Your support of COTA doesn’t end in Uganda. By donating, you’re joining a global movement to uplift and empower refugee women to rebuild their lives.

A £50 donation this Christmas could help a refugee community set up a safe space for women and girls.