Last week, I had the opportunity to travel to Uganda with The Coalition for Global Prosperity (CGP) and witness firsthand the invaluable work being done by The UN World Food Programme at the Kiryandongo Refugee Settlement.
As the largest humanitarian organisation globally, The UN World Food Programme is instrumental in saving lives during emergencies and fostering stability and prosperity in regions grappling with conflict, disasters, and the effects of climate change.
Uganda is confronting significant challenges, including a rapidly growing population projected to reach 100 million by 2050, and hosting the third-largest refugee population worldwide.
Refugees, including those fleeing from Sudan, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burundi, find sanctuary within Uganda's borders. An increasing number of refugees, particularly from South Sudan, presents challenges we saw first-hand.
As the refugee population expands, the available plots of land diminish, and lead to progressively smaller allocations for cultivation. This reduction in land availability poses significant obstacles to the self-sufficiency and livelihoods of refugees, exacerbating their situations.
Participating in the Overseas Visits Programme organised by CGP allowed me to witness the transformative impact of British-funded projects, underscoring the significance of UK aid in addressing global challenges.
I am a Conservative voice dedicated to promoting global prosperity. I firmly believe that our UK aid can make a meaningful difference in the lives of millions, both abroad and, crucially, here at home.
Successful international aid initiatives, like those in Uganda, are crucial in supporting global development and prosperity, in turn deterring individuals from undertaking perilous journeys to migrate the UK.
Westmorland and Lonsdale are seeking a representative who champions their priorities at home and can advocate for their interests on the international stage.
With news of the General Election, I have wasted no time getting back home and hitting the campaign trail!