LocationsRole of Markets in building Resilience in Refugee Hosting communities
World Refugee Day 2025
June 20, 2025
The first auction day at Ciforo market in Adjumani District
UNDP Uganda
Newly constructed Markets in Adjumani, Obongi and Lamwo district refugee settlements are vibrant spaces building resilience, unity, and creating opportunities for refugees and host communities to strive and rebuild their lives and livelihoods.
Built with Support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), these markets are more than just a collection of stalls and shops. They are thoughtfully designed spaces that offer clean water, proper sanitation, secure lockable stalls, well-zoned areas for different goods and are powered by green energy solutions. These features have transformed the markets into a dignified environment where refugees, host community members and communities can trade safely, efficiently, and with pride.
It is impressive to see the seamless interactions between refugees and host community members. Both trading side by side, sharing stories, and building relationships. This social cohesion is not just a byproduct of commerce - it is a deliberate outcome of inclusive development.
Community Voices
Women refugees such as Arizio Jane Eberu and Lazea Christine have found new strength with the new markets. Jane, a fishmonger, now works in a safer, better-lit environment and returns home early enough to spend time with her family. Christine, once limited by makeshift stalls, now dreams of expanding into wholesale thanks to secure storage and increased sales.
“The new market has made a big difference for us, we have proper lighting, improved security with a perimeter fence, and lockable stalls. These improvements mean our goods are safer, and the environment is far more comfortable to work in.”Arizio Jane Eberu, South Sudanese Refugee
“For the first time, I don’t have to carry my goods back and forth every day, nor do I have to endure sitting under the sun all day. Now that I have secure storage space, I’m planning to stock more items. I’ve always dreamed of expanding into a wholesale business, and finally, that dream feels achievable.”Lazaa Christine, South Sudanese Refugee
For host community members like Olany Stephen, the market represents a fresh start. After years of selling from a dusty roadside, he now operates from a clean, organized shop. His daily earnings have more than tripled, and he speaks of the market as a place that fosters healthy competition and personal growth.
“This market gives vendors room to breathe and grow,” he said. “On the first day, I sold goods worth UGX 120,000, and today, on auction day, I expect to exceed UGX 150,000. Back then, my highest daily sales ranged between UGX 30,000 and 45,000.”Olany Stephen.
This could be a demonstration of how infrastructure can build resilience. By providing a stable, secure, and inclusive environment, thousands of displaced and homeless people can have hope of better livelihoods - through generating income, planning, and recovering from past hardships
As these markets continue to grow, ongoing support from the local governments and development partners remains crucial. UNDP remains focused on strengthening institutions, promoting risk-informed development, and empowering vulnerable populations to withstand and adapt to challenging circumstances.
By Joel Akena, UNDP Communications