In the heart of Kampala, Uganda’s busy capital, an unexpected alliance is reshaping perceptions and transforming communities. Refugees, often seen as recipients of aid, are stepping into roles as environmental stewards and community leaders, challenging stereotypes and inspiring change.

At the forefront of this movement are two organizations: People for Peace and Defense of Rights (PPDR) Uganda and #Lead4Africa. Their collaboration sparks a series of initiatives that not only clean up local areas but also build bridges between refugees and their host communities.

Seeds of Change

Poni Grace, a South Sudanese refugee studying at Makerere University Business School (MUBS), embodies this spirit of giving back. “As refugees, we have a unique opportunity to contribute positively to our host country,” she says, her eyes bright with purpose. “Through university fellowships, we’re learning to become disciplined leaders who can make a real difference.”

This sentiment is echoed by Nelly Achola of #Lead4Africa. “Our goal is to cultivate leadership among students, especially those from refugee backgrounds,” Achola explains. “Each semester, we challenge them to engage in community service, turning theory into action.”

A Market Transformed

The impact of these efforts is perhaps most visible at Kibuye Market, a vibrant commercial hub that serves both locals and refugees. On this Saturday morning, the market was eventful – not just from trading, but from a group of volunteers armed with brooms, bags, and boundless enthusiasm.

Mugisho Joyeux from PPDR, his shirt damp with sweat from the morning’s work, pauses to survey the scene. “We chose Kibuye Market because it’s a melting pot,” he says. “By cleaning here, we’re not just tidying up; we’re building relationships and changing perceptions.”

The response from market vendors and shoppers has been overwhelmingly positive. “It feels good to shop in a clean space,” beams Sarah, a local fruit seller. “And it’s even better knowing that refugees are part of making this happen. It changes how you think about them, you know?”

Beyond Cleaning: Building Community

Pastor Mugabe Chris from Munyonyo sees these initiatives as more than just cleanup efforts. “This is about service, yes, but it’s also about integration,” he reflects. “When refugees and Ugandans work side by side, sweeping the same streets, you can’t help but see each other as neighbors, as equals.”

This sentiment is shared by Ayman, a student refugee from South Sudan. “For us refugees, taking care of Uganda’s environment is a way of saying ‘thank you,'” she explains. “It’s our home now too, and we have a responsibility to protect it.”

Changing Narratives, One Sweep at a Time

Sumaya Awill Muhamad, PPDR’s social media advocate, sees these outreach initiatives as powerful tools for changing narratives. “Every post, every photo of refugees cleaning up or planting trees challenges the stereotypes people might have,” she says. “We’re showing that refugees aren’t just takers – we’re givers, we’re doers.”

Ayella Moses, Supervisor of Kibuye Market, has witnessed this transformation firsthand. “The support from PPDR has been a blessing,” he says, gesturing to the now-spotless market corridors. “But more than that, seeing everyone, refugees and locals, working together like this… it gives you hope, doesn’t it?”

As the sun climbs higher in the Kampala sky, the cleanup crew begins to disperse. But the impact of their work lingers – not just in the cleaner streets and market stalls, but in the minds and hearts of those they’ve touched.

In a world often divided by borders and differences, these refugee environmental champions are proving that the most powerful changes often start with the simplest actions – like picking up a broom and deciding to make a difference.