This year’s World Refugee Day, we share the inspiring story of Marceline Nyarunja, a refugee entrepreneur whose journey reflects resilience, determination, and the power of opportunity.

From arriving in Uganda with uncertainty to building a prosperous lifestyle through financial inclusion, continuous learning, and hard work, her story is a testament to what is possible when refugees are empowered to rebuild their lives with dignity.

Can you tell us about yourself and your journey as a refugee, and your relationship with UGAFODE?

My name is Marceline Nyarunja, originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo. I came to Uganda as a refugee in 2010.

In 2017, I joined UGAFODE Microfinance through a refugee women’s savings group, where I served as the group leader. UGAFODE engaged us, organized us into groups, and introduced us to lending opportunities. That marked the beginning of my financial journey.

What challenges did you face as a refugee?

The biggest challenge I faced was the language barrier.

When I first arrived, I only spoke Swahili and French, which made it difficult to trade in local markets where people spoke Luganda. Communication was a major obstacle.

However, as I continued working and doing business with Ugandans, I eventually learned Luganda, which greatly reduced this challenge and helped me integrate more easily.

How has access to UGAFODE’s services helped you rebuild your life?

UGAFODE has played a critical role in rebuilding my life.

• • I learned the importance of saving consistently

• • Loan repayment structures encouraged me to top up my savings regularly

• • Through financial literacy trainings, I gained knowledge on how to grow my business

I started with a small business selling earrings and necklaces, then transitioned into African wear (bitenge), and today, I run a fish trading business.

UGAFODE helped me shift my mindset — I used to believe prosperity could only come from going abroad. But I learned that it is possible to thrive right here in Uganda through hard work, access to finance, and discipline.

Which UGAFODE products or services have been most impactful?

The SMART Loan has been the most impactful for me.

• • My first loan was UGX 800,000 within a group

• • It increased to UGX 1,500,000

• • Later, I transitioned to an individual loan, which allowed me to grow my capital significantly

Today, the business capital I have is a direct result of support from UGAFODE loans.

What does World Refugee Day mean to you?

World Refugee Day is deeply personal to me.

It reminds me of:

• • The day I left my home country

• • The struggles that forced us to flee

• • The reality of becoming a refugee

Before, I used to see refugees on TV and think they were helpless. I never imagined I would be one.

There was a time when refugees felt less equal economically, often looked down upon. But today, I am proud to say:

• • Refugees and Ugandans are equal.

• • We can all build, grow, and succeed together.
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What are your hopes and dreams for the future?

I have big dreams for my future:

• • To build my own home and stop renting

• • To buy more land

• • To start a farm

• • To continue growing my business and become financially stable

With the continued support of UGAFODE, I believe these dreams are achievable.

Marceline’s story is a reminder of the spirit behind World Refugee Day 2026. It shows that when refugees are given access to opportunity, financial services, and the knowledge to succeed, they can do more than rebuilding their own lives, they contribute to the growth and prosperity of the communities that welcome them.

#WorldRefugeeDay2026 #FinancialInclusion #RefugeeEmpowerment