Refugee Children.

Praying and working for peace to become a reality is the challenge of those who work among the refugees in Uganda.  In an environment where no prospect of a just solution to the root cause of their displacement exists.  Sudanese refugees are being enabled to build for a better tomorrow.  Brother Michael Foley, CFX, Country Director within Jesuit Relief Services in Uganda, is one among many providing vital support for these struggling but determined people away from home.

Refugee assistance in Uganda provides safety from war and famine.  Children are progressing undisturbed through formal education.  Families are able to grow their own food.  Security personnel are able to carry out their duties.  People are able to come together as community to worship.  There is much to be thankful for, and hope in the midst of a daunting present.

Brother Michael and friends.

 
Brother Michael contributes within a network that in large projects in Nimule and Adjumani cater to educational and pastoral needs of 100,000 refugees and internally displaced Sudanese.  In Kampala and Rhino Camp projects help urban refugees and a non-formal education system assists schools servicing 40,000 pupils and offers spiritual and material help to thousands.

Uganda, unlike many countries which insist that refugees remain in camps and depend totally on UN and aid agencies, has given land to the refugees to enable them to gain a modicum of self-sufficiency and self-respect.  Refugees are also given freedom and encouragement to participate in the local economy by operating small-scale businesses and to practice various trades.

In his current work in Kampala, Uganda, Brother Michael is present among people, whose lives are disrupted by an ongoing conflict with little relief in sight, who travel is made hazardous by land mines and the threat of attack, and whose support is inherently fragile.  His efforts and that of his many colleagues bring Christ's healing touch in a time of severe trial.