SSURA Joins the LEAD Uganda Project to Empower Refugees and Host Communities in Yumbe District.

12 December 2024 was the official launch of the LEAD Uganda project, an ambitious four-year initiative funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs in partnership with Woord en Daad. This pioneering program is about empowering refugees and host communities across Uganda toward sustainable development and building resilience. The launch event brought together a variety of key stakeholders, including representatives from government, donors, international NGOs, and local civil society organizations.

Launch Event Highlights
The opening remarks that started the event gave a general overview of what was expected from the LEAD project in terms of goals, outcomes, and scope. The findings from baseline and gender studies stressed the critical importance of the inclusive approach in dealing with the different challenges faced by both refugees and host communities.
A keynote address entitled "Maintaining Momentum on Localization: Sustaining Investments, Innovations, and Gains" set the inspirational tone for the day by focusing on how to make development efforts truly localized and sustainable.
A very engaging panel discussion brought together voices from INGOs, CSOs, government representatives, and donors to share perspectives on strengthening refugee support systems in Uganda. These discussions highlighted innovative solutions and best practices to maximize the impact of the project.
Speeches from the key stakeholders, including Woord en Daad, Commissioner for the Ministry of Local Government, and the Dutch Embassy, celebrated the collaborative spirit behind the project and underscored its potential for transformative change.
The event was sealed with the signing of a commemorative plaque, marking the official launch of this ambitious journey and a networking platforms for partners and  stakeholders to meet and discuss the implementation of the project.

SSURA's Role in the LEAD Uganda Project
SSURA is one of the implementing partners of this transformative initiative; its intervention area will focus on smart agriculture within Yumbe District. From January 2025 to February 2028, SSURA will engage directly with the local communities to provide training in productive agricultural practices and ensure market linkages for their produce, thereby ensuring economic viability. By giving farmers knowledge and tools to improve yields and connect them to viable markets, SSURA will improve livelihoods and build resilience among refugees and host communities.

Shared Commitment to Sustainable Change
The launch of the LEAD Uganda project celebrated not only the beginning of this journey of impact but also reminded them of the importance of collective action in creating lasting, positive change. With the collaboration of partners like SSURA and the unwavering support of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Woord en Daad, and other stakeholders, this vision of a more empowered and self-reliant refugee and host community in Uganda is well within reach.
Watch this space as SSURA begins its exciting journey to transform lives with innovative agricultural practices coupled with market-driven solutions.