Uganda is home to over 1.8 million refugees—the largest in Africa. Most have fled brutal conflicts in South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Rwanda.
But while they arrive with little, many bring bold ideas and a hunger to rebuild their lives through trade, farming, and craftsmanship.
Uganda’s refugee policies are often hailed as among the world’s most progressive. Refugees can move freely, work legally, and even access land. But one major hurdle remains: access to formal financial services.
Without bank accounts, collateral, or credit history, many refugees are locked out of the financial system.
The challenge worsened in 2025 when global humanitarian funding cuts forced NGOs to scale back essential services. In the absence of donor aid, financial empowerment has become not just a survival tool—but a key to independence.
That’s where institutions like FINCA Uganda have stepped in.
Since 2019, FINCA has led the RISE Program—short for Refugees: Innovation, Self-Reliance, and Empowerment.
What began in the Kiryandongo settlement has now spread to Bidibidi, Rhino Camp, Adjumani, Kyaka II, and Imvepi—serving thousands of refugees with microloans and financial training.
But the real game-changer? FINCA rewrote its rules to accept Refugee ID cards as valid identification and security. No land title? No problem. This single shift unlocked access for refugees who had previously been excluded.
“I wanted to borrow money, but it wasn’t easy because I’m a refugee,” shared Auma Santa from Kiryandongo. “FINCA gave us a chance, and many businesses have grown since.”
Abdalla Ali Adam, also in Kiryandongo, recalled, “I kept borrowing from friends until FINCA helped me in 2019. Now my business is thriving.”
These aren’t isolated stories—they represent a growing trend. Through partnerships with Kiva, Opportunity International, GIZ, and Mercy Corps, FINCA has designed loan products specifically for refugees.
Unlike traditional banks, FINCA doesn’t judge borrowers by land or formal income—but by their business potential and ability to repay.
Training Meets Trust
In settlements across Uganda, FINCA runs financial literacy workshops. These teach budgeting, saving, responsible borrowing, and business development. Refugees don’t just take loans—they learn how to use them wisely.
According to Abraham Arimo, a Refugee Finance Project Associate at FINCA, financial inclusion is now more critical than ever.
“With declining humanitarian aid, access to financial services builds resilience and long-term sustainability,” said Arimo.
Today, refugees can apply for loans via FINCA branches or through mobile outreach units embedded within NGO partners. A valid Refugee ID, a simple credit check, and a feasible business idea are all that’s needed.
Beyond Aid: Building Uganda’s Economy
When refugees open businesses, they don’t just support their families—they create jobs, boost trade, and drive local economies. Markets grow. Suppliers earn more. Host communities benefit.
That’s why refugee financial access is more than a humanitarian cause—it’s an economic strategy.
As Uganda bears one of the heaviest refugee burdens globally, empowering displaced communities through inclusive finance could be one of the smartest investments the country makes.
