Renowned photographer Giles Duley visited a refugee camp in Omugo, Uganda, where he met refugees with disabilities fleeing violence in South Sudan. Many of these individuals who were affected by the conflict, shared their personal stories and the significant challenges they face in the refugee camp.
Beatrice, who sits next to her mom, Reida, are a part of the 1 million South Sudanese who have taken refuge in Uganda.
Beatrice, who became paralyzed at age six due to the polio virus, wishes she could play with the other kids in the camp. Soon after this photo was taken, Beatrice received a wheelchair from HI’s team. As a result, she will be able to attend school and play with others.
Reida, Beatrice’s mother, sorts through beans that she will soon cook over wood for her three children. Beatrice likes to cook the sauce for the beans and often helps her mother.
John had his leg amputated in 2012 as a result of cancer. When shootings started during the night in his village in South Sudan, he had to leave in a hurry with his wife. John took his crutches but had to leave his prosthesis behind.
In the camp, John became a community volunteer with Humanity & Inclusion. He travels around the refugee camp to identify vulnerable people and people with disabilities, so that our teams can ensure they receive the support they need.
Catarina fled violence in South Sudan with her family. She feels very lonely in the refugee camp. It is very rocky which makes it difficult for Catarina to get around. She wishes she could go and have a chat with her neighbors and visit others in the camp.
Mary fled the violence in South Sudan and took refuge with her family in Omugo refugee camp.
“I wonder if I will see my friends again?” she said. She cannot reach her friends that she used to visit in South Sudan. They are all separated in other camps. It makes her feel stressed.
Mary has a disability due to the polio virus and also has scoliosis. She had to leave her wheelchair behind when she fled and now struggles to move throughout the camp.
HI's work in Uganda
Humanity & Inclusion supports a large number of refugees entering Uganda, most of whom have fled the conflict in South Sudan. Our teams also help victims of landmines and other explosive remnants of war (ERW) to recover through physical rehabilitation, psychological support, and job training. We educate other Ugandans about the risks posed by these weapons. Learn more about the work we're doing in Uganda.