A new report has revealed that refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in East Africa generate an estimated USD 27 billion annually through economic activities conducted in the communities where they live.
The study, conducted by Uganda-based Amahoro Coalition across East African countries, found that refugees and people displaced within their own countries contribute significantly to local economies through business, services, agriculture, and cross-border trade.
This economic output is comparable to Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the early 2010s or Zambia’s current GDP. However, this economy operates largely without the financial infrastructure typically available to economies of this size, including access to banking services, formal retail supply chains, and credit facilities.
“Displaced communities across Africa are running businesses, farming, and engaging in cross-border trade, but without the financial infrastructure available to most other economic actors. That is where a significant investment opportunity lies,” said Tito Mbathi, Strategic Custodian for Partnerships at Amahoro Coalition.
The report identifies investment opportunities in five key sectors: entrepreneurship, agriculture, financial services, transportation and supply chains, and manufacturing. Its findings are based on primary data, market-size assessments, and business case studies that have already demonstrated commercial success.
In partnership with DFCU Bank, one of Uganda’s leading financial institutions, Amahoro Coalition is working to translate the report’s findings into practical financial products and empowerment opportunities for displaced entrepreneurs living in refugee settlements across Uganda.
With its network of 57 branches and extensive experience serving small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as well as agribusinesses, DFCU Bank is well positioned to support this growing displaced-persons economy.
Maryann Wanjiku Michuki, Chief Business Solutions and Marketing Officer at DFCU Bank, said the bank is committed to reaching all individuals with economic potential while advancing financial inclusion.
“This report confirms what we see in Uganda every day: displaced people are not merely participants in the economy; they are entrepreneurs, farmers, customers, and development partners. Through our partnership with Amahoro Coalition, we are committed to developing financial solutions that expand access to credit, markets, and business growth opportunities for refugees and the communities that host them,” she said.
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