Kitgum District Woman Representative Lilian Aber has highlighted the role of bicycles in improving access to education, healthcare and economic opportunities for refugees and host communities in Uganda.
Aber made the remarks on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, during the launch of the Buffalo Bicycles’ Impact on Refugee and Host Communities in Uganda report and its accompanying policy brief at Mestil Hotel in Nsambya.
The report examines how bicycles are helping address mobility challenges affecting refugees and surrounding communities, particularly in Bidi Bidi, Nakivale, Palabek and Adjumani, where access to essential services and livelihood opportunities can be difficult.
According to Aber, improved mobility is an important factor in strengthening the welfare of vulnerable populations and supporting their efforts to become self-reliant.
She noted that bicycles provide a practical means of transportation, helping individuals reach schools, healthcare facilities and places of work while reducing the difficulties associated with long distances.
“As Government, we recognize that mobility is a practical tool for promoting dignity, resilience and self-reliance,” Aber said.
Her remarks highlighted the importance of transport solutions in refugee-hosting areas, where limited infrastructure and the cost of movement can constrain access to essential services and economic activities.
The report also draws attention to the potential of bicycles to support communities as they seek to improve their livelihoods and participate more actively in local economic activities.
Aber commended World Bicycle Relief, Buffalo Bicycles Uganda and other humanitarian and development partners for their contributions towards improving the welfare of refugees and host communities.
She said their efforts were helping strengthen refugee protection while promoting peaceful coexistence between displaced populations and the communities hosting them.
Uganda hosts refugees from several countries and has continued to rely on cooperation between government agencies, humanitarian organisations and development partners to support displaced people and the communities receiving them.
The launch of the report and policy brief is expected to contribute to discussions on practical interventions that can improve service delivery, strengthen livelihoods and support the integration of refugees into host communities.
The findings place mobility among the issues requiring attention in efforts to promote resilience and sustainable livelihoods in Uganda’s refugee-hosting districts.