Challenges of Economic Integration of Urban Refugees in Kampala City, Uganda

Uganda ranks among the top ten refugee hosting countries globally, hosting over 1.85 million refugees in March 2025 of which 8.5 percent live in Kampala capital city. Uganda received 98,232 refugees in 2023 of which 49.3% arrived in Kampala. The refugees arriving in Uganda are fleeing conflict and adverse effects of climate change. Other refugees are shifting from settlements in rural areas due to the dwindling support from government to urban areas in hope of better life. This study examined the socio-economic integration of refugees in Kampala city specifically access to employment opportunities and economic participation. The study used a cross-sectional design and mixed methods approach. A self-administered questionnaire and key informant interviews were used to gather data from the refugees and local authorities respectively. Percentages and thematic analysis were used to analyze quantitative and qualitative data respectively. Results indicate that socially, refugees are easily accepted and absorbed in the communities in Kampala city but the stiff competition from the local population for jobs and business opportunities is a barrier to economic integration. Refugees with capital through remittances from their home countries are faring well in business and employing locals and other refugees. The Covid-19 pandemic however has reduced remittances and led to job loss and business collapse. Besides, the need for work permits and restrictions to travel outside of the country has limited access to jobs and business opportunities. The government of Uganda should clearly interpret the law on access to employment for refugee to enable them access work. The government and donor agencies should craft economic interventions for empowering the urban refugees just as for rural refugees. Key words; Economic integration, employment, economic participation, Urban refugees.