Refugees from the DRC were stuck in a remote area since late May after border crossing was disallowed due to coronavirus restrictions.

Hilary Obaloker Onek, Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees in Uganda, ceremoniously welcomed the refugees at the border.

The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) said it was working with the Government of Uganda and partners to make sure humanitarian assistance, including food and shelter will be available.

At the border, Congolese refugee Oronyboth Victor said he woke one morning to rebels destroying his community.

The UNHCR said the pandemic came at the same time as a 30% food ration-cut for refugees and severe gaps in education, child protection and mental health support due to existing funding shortfalls.