Government, UN launch charcoal project
Mr Alfred Mbogori (with cap) visits one of the charcoal briquette stores in Oruchinga Refugee Camp last Wednesday. Photo by Rajab Mukombozi
Isingiro- Government and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) have launched charcoal briquette making projects in refugee camps.
The project established in Nakivale Refugee Camp in Isingiro District also serves refugees in the nearby Oruchinga Refugee Settlement, while another has been set up in Kyaka Refugee Camp in Kyenjojo District.
The head of UNHCR, Mbarara Sub-office, Mr Alfred Mbogori, said on Wednesday the project came about as a result of the refugees’ search for firewood causing a lot of destruction to the environment.
“There is a lot of destruction to the environment in all refugee settlements,” said Mr Mbogori. On the issue of cost, Mr Mbogori said UNHCR and government managed to subsidise the cost to almost 100 per cent, making it cheaper than wood.
Mr Mbogori added that single mothers and children will get the briquettes free of charge.
The project officer, Ms Anita Nasasira, said the project is good for women and children who have been facing various risks such as trading sex for firewood, among others.
