Uganda has stopped giving asylum and refugee status to people from Eritrea, Somalia, and Ethiopia. The government says there is no war in these countries and blames a severe shortage of funds for the policy change. "I have instructed our officers not to give refugee status to citizens from those countries … especially those coming from Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia, because there is no war there," said Hillary Onek, Uganda’s minister for refugees. Uganda hosts nearly 2 million refugees, the largest number in Africa. This includes over 56,000 Eritreans, about 50,000 Somalis, and 16,000 Ethiopians, according to the UN refugee agency UNHCR. Many refugees fled violence, forced conscription, or climate crises. The government says donor funding has dropped sharply. "Uganda used to get $240m per year from UNHCR, but with an increased refugee population of almost 2 million people, we now get less than $100m," Onek said. This year, Uganda has received only $18m. This situation has raised fears that many refugees will be left without legal status or proper help. One refugee official in Kampala said, "It’s a very dangerous move that puts at risk the lives of hundreds of people." Aid cuts from the US and UK have affected Uganda's ability to support refugees. Donald Trump’s freeze on US aid and the UK reducing aid spending are among the reasons. Experts say the policy change is part of a global trend to restrict refugee support. "For many refugees affected, this will be a massive blow," said Abdullahi Halakhe from Refugees International. Uganda’s 2025 refugee plan still needs nearly $730m more in funding. The UN says only 25% of the budget has been secured, risking vital services and progress for refugees. Uganda was known for its liberal refugee policy, allowing refugees to work and access public services. Halakhe said, "It’s a massive step backwards from Uganda after years of being a leader in a progressive refugee policy." In February, the World Food Programme cut food rations for a million people in Uganda due to funding cuts, worsening fears for refugees. The UNHCR has not commented on the new policy yet.