Uganda continues to be one of the largest refugee-hosting countries in Africa, currently sheltering over 1.5 million refugees and asylum seekers, primarily from neighboring countries affected by armed conflict and political instability. The majority come from South Sudan, where civil war and ethnic violence have displaced millions since 2013, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has been plagued by prolonged insecurity in the eastern regions due to rebel activity and militia violence. In addition, Uganda hosts refugees from Burundi, Somalia, Eritrea, and most recently Sudan, where renewed fighting in 2023 escalated displacement in the region. Life in Uganda’s refugee settlements, such as Bidi Bidi, Nakivale, and Rwamwanja, poses major psychosocial challenges. Many refugees, particularly youth and children, experience trauma from violence, separation, and loss. Prolonged displacement, limited access to education, and economic hardship further affect their mental well-being. Traditional humanitarian efforts, while vital, often overlook the deeper emotional and psychological impacts of displacement. This project,
“Stars Offering HOpe (SOHO)”, proposes to use astronomy as a therapeutic and educational tool to support the mental health and psychosocial resilience of youth in refugee camps. By combining night-sky observations, creative learning, and peer-led workshops, the initiative seeks to create safe, inspiring spaces where young people can rediscover curiosity, hope, and a sense of belonging. The project will also train community-based facilitators in basic astronomy and trauma-sensitive facilitation, ensuring sustainability and deeper impact. Through this approach, astronomy becomes more than science, it becomes a pathway to healing, unity, and future-oriented thinking in communities shaped by conflict. The activities include:(i) Community Astronomy Nights
– Telescope viewings, constellation tours, and storytelling under the dark night stars.
– Discussions about the universe, hope, and resilience.
(ii) “Cosmic Calm” Workshops
– Sessions integrating storytelling, astronomy facts, and artistic expression.
Both activities use awe, community, storytelling, and creativity, all evidence-based tools that strengthen resilience, reduce stress and loneliness, and promote emotional well-being. Importantly, this project is a model that can be replicated across all refugee camps in the country, requiring only minor logistical adjustments.”
