Henry Mugisha on promotion of commercial farming, economic inclusion for refugees

The Global Resilience Partnership (GRP) recently announced the 16 winners of their Innovation Challenge, focusing on resilience solutions across Africa and Asia. Among the winners is the Water Governance Institute, a non-governmental organization dedicated to research, training, and robust work on water-related issues and natural resources. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, Executive Director Henry Mugisha shared insights into the institute's work, particularly in promoting economic inclusion and resilience for refugees through innovative farming solutions. Mugisha provided a detailed overview of the institute's work in refugee settlements, highlighting the integration of fish and crop farming using small containers and build-up structures. By utilizing interconnected systems that optimize water efficiency, the institute has successfully implemented these solutions in multiple settlements in Uganda, impacting the lives of both refugees and host communities. One key theme that emerged from the interview is the transformative impact of aquaponic systems on nutritional health and economic opportunities for refugees. Mugisha emphasized the importance of providing protein and essential nutrients through fish and horticultural crops, addressing nutritional deficiencies prevalent in refugee settings. The aquaponic systems not only enhance food security but also offer an additional source of income for refugees, empowering them to support themselves beyond traditional aid channels. Furthermore, Mugisha discussed the implications of neglected diseases on economic opportunities and public health in refugee populations. By linking waterborne diseases to unsafe water sources, he underscored the critical role of water quality in preventing illnesses such as schistosomiasis, scabies, and diarrhea. The institute's innovative solutions aim to strengthen health resilience and mitigate the impact of neglected diseases through sustainable farming practices and improved water management. In addressing the challenges faced by refugees, Mugisha called for greater government attention and investment in combating neglected diseases. He advocated for prioritizing neglected diseases on par with major health initiatives like HIV/AIDS, emphasizing the cost-effective nature of prevention and treatment for these illnesses. By raising awareness and allocating resources to neglected diseases, Mugisha believes that significant progress can be made in eliminating these health threats and promoting overall well-being in vulnerable populations. Looking ahead, Mugisha expressed confidence in the achievable goal of eradicating neglected diseases through coordinated efforts and heightened focus on preventive measures. With simple interventions like deworming tablets yielding positive outcomes in reducing infection rates, Mugisha highlighted the feasibility of eliminating neglected diseases and enhancing public health outcomes in refugee settings. As the Water Governance Institute continues its pioneering work in promoting economic inclusion, resilience, and health equity for refugees, the impact of their innovative farming solutions serves as a beacon of hope for sustainable development and empowerment in marginalized communities. By leveraging technology, sustainable practices, and community engagement, the institute stands at the forefront of driving positive change and fostering resilience in refugee populations across Africa and Asia.