Displaced, forced to flee, uprooted from all they had known. From Palestine to Ukraine and Myanmar to Sudan, more than 122.1 million people across the globe have been forced from their homes —the highest such number in a decade—fueled by wide-reaching, ongoing violent conflicts. People now find themselves in a new place, not knowing if they’ll ever be able to return home, having left most everything behind, and hoping to rebuild their lives elsewhere.
On World Refugee Day, we recognise refugees’ enormous struggle. We also celebrate their courage and tenacity. In that spirit, this year we are sharing the stories of two refugees at Bidi Bidi refugee settlement in Uganda, Rose and Festo. Despite the challenges of fleeing war in South Sudan and starting over, both are determined to build a path to a brighter future.
Read their stories and find out how you can support refugees’ determination, drive, and dreams – and help them build strong and thriving communities.
Displaced, yet daring to dream
Nearly nine years ago, Rose and her four children fled on foot from their home in South Sudan when conflict erupted. They arrived at Bidi Bidi refugee settlement in Uganda, the largest refugee camp in Africa and home to more than 250,000 refugees.
I am able to support my home and take care of my children.
Rose has partnered with two women to grow sesame on about three acres of land. Supported by a Psalms Foundation and Village Enterprise program, they have also started a savings and loans group, where each member contributes a small amount every week so they can draw loans to help with shortfalls. “I can support my home and take care of my children,” said Rose. “When the [sesame] is ready, I can solve my challenges.”
With the income she earns from farming, Rose is hoping she can save enough to send one of her daughters to boarding school in Kampala, the capital of Uganda. With each sesame harvest, Rose is growing more opportunities for her children.
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Displaced, yet driven to rebuild
“Ever since I joined this program, I have been able to save some money,” said Festo, who lives in Bidi Bidi refugee settlement with his mother, wife, and children. “I am able to get a loan from the group and operate my business.” Like Rose, Festo arrived by foot to Uganda almost nine years ago and had struggled to find opportunities to support his family. As a Psalms Foundation and Village Enterprise program participant, Festo and his business partners sell silver fish, a high nutrient food that is popular in the settlement.
