Lived experiences of resource insecurity, weather-related disruptions, and wellbeing among urban refugee youth in Kampala, Uganda: qualitative insights

ABSTRACT

Limited research has examined how urban refugee youth in low- and middle-income countries experience and interpret intersecting challenges related to resource insecurities and extreme weather. We conducted a qualitative study to explore lived experiences of resource insecurity, weather-related disruptions, and wellbeing among urban refugee youth in Kampala, Uganda. We conducted individual interviews using the SenseMaker web-based data collection tool (July–November 2023) with refugee youth aged 16–24 living in informal settlements in Kampala. Participants' (n = 54; mean age = 21.4, standard deviation = 2.4; 51.9% men and 48.1% women) narratives discussed two key themes. Theme 1, ‘Resource insecurity in informal settlements and perceived links to extreme weather,’ included two subthemes: (a) perceptions that heavy rains and flooding worsened infrastructure and sanitation challenges; and (b) perceptions that water shortages and sanitation challenges worsened during periods of drought. Theme 2, ‘Perceptions that resource insecurity and weather-related disruptions impacted wellbeing,’ included three subthemes: (a) violence and safety concerns associated with resource access; (b) perceptions of physical health and safety concerns related to resource insecurity and weather-related disruptions; and (c) psychosocial stress associated with resource insecurity and weather-related disruptions. Findings underscore the importance of climate-responsive, youth-centred, and equity-focused interventions that address resource insecurity and broader social and environmental conditions.