Dynamics of transition to self-sufficiency for refugees in Swinga, Zone 2, Bidibidi settlement in Yumbe District, Uganda

The research examines various factors that enhance transition of refugees to self-sufficiency, moving away from reliance on unsustainable relief in light of the global reduction in funding streams. It outlines essential actions for the government and humanitarian actors, whose joint efforts are crucial to this endeavour. The study utilized a qualitative research approach, conducting thirty key informant interviews, eleven individual interviews, and six focus group discussions. The data and insights gathered were analysed using Nvivo and Atlas software version 26. Findings reveal a strong preference for self-sufficiency by refugees because it enables refugees to attain financial independence and offers a chance to build a future free from aid dependence. The results indicates that transitioning refugees to self-sufficiency fosters a triple win: it enhances refugees' earnings and self-reliance, provides additional aid for the most vulnerable refugees who cannot work, and reduces poverty. It lessens aid dependence, leading to savings in the required humanitarian assistance; and it allows for the reallocation of these savings in humanitarian assistance to expedite development in host communities. The challenges to refugee to transition to self-sufficiency are intricate and arise from both structural policy and occasionally legal constraints among others. Key recommendations includes - It is vital to enhance the economic participation of refugees while concurrently decreasing reliance on aid. Additionally, the funding of refugee programs must reformed, shifting from humanitarian aid to a more sustainable development model