The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Chris Lukkien, Chief Executive Officer of ZOA International visits as Uganda sets sights on stronger support for vulnerable communities
Kampala, Uganda | NEWS CORRESPONDENT | ZOA Uganda is marking 20 years of humanitarian and development work, reaffirming its commitment to supporting refugees, host communities and other vulnerable populations to rebuild their lives and achieve sustainable livelihoods.
Since 2006, ZOA has worked across West Nile, Acholi, Karamoja and Bunyoro, supporting communities affected by conflict, displacement, poverty, and disasters. Its programmes focus on food security and livelihoods, education, land rights, and water, sanitation, and hygiene.
The anniversary is being commemorated by an anniversary with the presence of Chris Lukkien, Chief Executive Officer of ZOA International, who is in Uganda to join staff and partners in celebrating the milestone and visit project areas to see firsthand how ZOA’s interventions are supporting communities and improving lives. Other stakeholders represented include officials from the Ministry for Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, Embassy of the Kingdom of The Netherlands, and other partners.
Speaking at the anniversary dinner in Kampala, Dr. John Panga, Country Director of ZOA Uganda, said the milestone celebrates lives transformed, partnerships strengthened and resilience built in communities.
“Behind our achievements are people whose lives have been touched by our work: children accessing education, families strengthening their livelihoods, communities securing their land rights and access to clean water, and individuals rebuilding their lives with dignity and hope,” said Dr. Panga.
The anniversary comes as Uganda continues to host more than 2 million refugees, underscoring the need for sustained humanitarian assistance alongside long-term recovery and self-reliance.
Looking ahead, ZOA Uganda’s planned 2027–2030 strategic direction will prioritise continued support for refugees and host communities, expanded engagement in Karamoja, stronger land rights and governance, community-led anticipatory action, and deeper partnerships with local organisations and government institutions.
ZOA also acknowledged the Government of Uganda, donors, development partners, local organisations, staff and communities for their contribution to two decades of work.
As it enters its next chapter, ZOA Uganda calls on partners to renew their commitment to building resilient communities where people can live with dignity, peace and sustainable livelihoods.
