Minister Hussen Concludes Visit to Uganda and Tanzania
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Overview of the Visit
On August 8, 2018, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, completed a week-long visit to Tanzania and Uganda. These countries are crucial allies in Eastern Africa. During the visit, Minister Hussen engaged with key officials and stakeholders to address global migration trends and the challenges faced by these nations.
Initiatives in Uganda
Minister Hussen commended Uganda for its commendable efforts in hosting a large refugee population. He reaffirmed Canada’s dedication to assisting refugees and vulnerable groups by pledging further financial aid.
He announced a grant of $175,000 from Canada’s Migration Policy Development Program. This grant will fund three sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) experts in Uganda, Ethiopia, and Costa Rica. These professionals aim to safeguard and support refugees, focusing on women and girls affected by SGBV.
Collaborative Efforts and Projects
These experts, in collaboration with the International Catholic Migration Commission and the UNHCR, will be involved in various activities. Their responsibilities include identifying and referring vulnerable refugee women and girls for resettlement opportunities in Canada and other countries.
Additionally, Minister Hussen introduced a $99,000 grant for Canada’s Economic Mobility Pathway Project. This pilot, in partnership with Talent Beyond Boundaries, RefugePoint, and the UNHCR, evaluates the feasibility of skilled refugees in Kenya and the Middle East entering Canada’s economic immigration programs. This project is vital for identifying barriers preventing vulnerable groups from achieving economic independence and stability in Canada.
Food Assistance and Support
Representing the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister Hussen announced an additional $320,000 from Canada for food aid to South Sudanese refugees in Uganda. This funding will support 2,000 pregnant and lactating mothers and 500 individuals with specific dietary needs for nine months. This support builds on previous aid provided since December 2016 through the Canadian Foodgrains Bank.
Statements from Minister Hussen
“Canada is deeply committed to sustaining efforts in Eastern Africa to support refugees and other vulnerable populations.”
“Tanzania and Uganda have a longstanding tradition of supporting refugees. Uganda, especially, is a leader in offering asylum through its inclusive policies.”
– The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
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