Access this visual story: Join Devex on the ground in Uganda as we explore solutions to malnutrition in a refugee setting.
KAMPALA, Uganda — More than five years of conflict has made the situation on the border between South Sudan and Uganda one of the largest refugee crises in Africa.
Palabek camp alone hosts more than 48,000 refugees. The ever-rising number of new arrivals, combined with a lack of resources, means acute malnutrition rates are higher than in any of the region’s 14 other displacement camps.
While the World Food Programme provides monthly packages of maize, oil, salt, sugar, and beans, portions are inadequate, and toward the end of the month, supplies start to wane. If the next delivery is late — as it was this month — starvation looms.
Alongside many of the experts who spoke to Devex, Mesfin Teklu Tessema, senior director of health at the International Rescue Committee, stressed the need to find new solutions and innovative ways of tackling nutritional needs for those living in displacement camps.
Amidst the mud and rain of Palabek camp, one innovative approach is already proving to be a lifeline for many.
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This focus area, powered by DSM, is exploring innovative solutions to improve nutrition, tackle malnutrition, and influence policies and funding. Visit the Focus on: Improving Nutrition page for more.
About the author
Rebecca L. Root
Rebecca L. Root is a freelance reporter for Devex based in Bangkok. Previously senior associate & reporter, she produced news stories, video, and podcasts as well as partnership content. She has a background in finance, travel, and global development journalism and has written for a variety of publications while living and working in Bangkok, New York, London, and Barcelona.