Barri Shorey
Senior Program Officer, Refugees, Disasters and Aviation
This World Refugee Day reminds us that as the number of refugees, migrants and displaced people continues to rise, hope and solutions are emerging from those closest to the crisis. The Conrad N. Hilton Foundation’s Refugees initiative is committed to amplifying refugee voices and investing in sustainable pathways to opportunity for refugees, migrants and the communities that welcome them.
Uganda stands out as both Africa’s largest host of refugees and a global leader in progressive refugee policies. Its “open door” policy welcomes those fleeing conflict, persecution and disaster, granting refugees the right to move freely, access social services, start businesses and own land. Currently hosting over 1.5 million refugees, Uganda was ranked sixth on the Norwegian Refugee Council’s list of the world’s most neglected displacement crises in 2024, as it continues to face immense pressure on its social systems, job market and natural resources.
The Hilton Foundation is committed to supporting locally driven solutions that benefit both refugees and host communities in Uganda. Through investments in a two-generation approach—supporting both refugee children and their caregivers through early childhood development and livelihood opportunities—we recognize and champion Uganda’s model of inclusive response and integration.
Why we fund Refugee-led organizations
Local knowledge and lived experience are essential drivers of progress. We invest in refugee-led organizations because they possess unique insight into the needs and aspirations of their communities, are trusted sources of support, and have developed innovative approaches to the challenges of displacement. Yet, there is a widespread failure to properly fund the RLOs doing some of the most important and effective work on the front lines of these crises.
Meet the refugee leaders pioneering solutions to unlock the economic and social potential of refugees in Kampala, Uganda, ensuring that solutions reflect the realities on the ground.
The Importance of Financial Inclusion
For refugees, financial inclusion is not just a service—it is a lifeline to opportunity. Access to financial tools—such as savings accounts, credit and business loans—enables refugees to invest in their livelihoods, weather economic shocks, and contribute to vibrant local economies. When refugees can participate fully in the financial system, they develop skills, build networks and transform their futures.