More than 1,771 Congolese refugees fleeing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have arrived at the Kyangwali Refugee Settlement in Kikuube District after undergoing security and health screenings.

This group, primarily composed of women, children, and the elderly, crossed into Uganda via Lake Albert last week, joining over 8,000 refugees who have already fled to Kikuube.

Initially received at the Sebigoro transit center in Kabwoya Sub-County, the refugees were later transferred to Kyangwali.

Their arrival brings the total number of new refugees at the settlement to 3,815 in just two weeks.

The refugees come from conflict-affected areas in Bunia District, Ituri Province, including Joo, Thoroges, Nyamamba, Kasenyi, Tchomia, Datule, Kafe, and Muvaramu.

According to Tophious Chali, the Settlement Commandant, more refugees continue to arrive daily, straining the settlement’s limited resources such as food, land, and healthcare.

She has called for urgent government intervention to address the growing humanitarian crisis.

Some refugees have settled in nearby communities, including Kyakapere, Sunzu, Kyabasambo, and Songa landing sites, with many forced to live in makeshift shelters or sleep outdoors due to inadequate facilities.

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