Deadline: 05-Jun-2026
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is accepting grant applications to support refugee-led initiatives that improve livelihoods, economic empowerment, and self-reliance among refugees and asylum-seekers in Eswatini.
The programme focuses on community-led and sustainable livelihood solutions, with special attention to women and youth economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, vocational training, and income-generating activities. The indicative budget for this call is 60,473.
Programme Objectives
The initiative aims to:
- Support refugee-led organizations in Eswatini
- Strengthen livelihoods and self-reliance activities
- Promote economic inclusion and resilience
- Encourage community-based and locally led solutions
- Improve long-term economic stability for refugees and asylum-seekers
UNHCR supports approaches that strengthen local ownership and practical livelihood opportunities.
Key Focus Areas
The programme supports projects related to:
- Livelihoods and self-reliance
- Skills development and vocational training
- Micro-enterprise and entrepreneurship
- Income-generating activities
- Market access and value chain development
- Agricultural and food security initiatives
- Digital inclusion
- Financial inclusion
- Women and youth economic empowerment
Context in Eswatini
Many refugees and asylum-seekers in Eswatini live in urban areas, while others stay at the Malindza Refugee Reception Centre.
Although many individuals have valuable skills, limited access to employment opportunities often forces them to depend on informal work or humanitarian assistance. The programme aims to improve economic independence and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Who is Eligible?
The call mainly targets:
- Refugee-led organizations
- Community-based refugee initiatives
- Organizations supporting refugee livelihoods in Eswatini
Projects should demonstrate:
- Community impact
- Inclusion and sustainability
- Economic empowerment potential
- Support for refugee self-reliance
Expected Results
The programme aims to achieve:
- Improved self-reliance among refugees and asylum-seekers
- Better livelihood and employment opportunities
- Increased economic inclusion
- Stronger community-led economic initiatives
- Greater access to development opportunities
Examples of Supported Activities
Eligible activities may include:
- Vocational and skills training
- Small business support
- Entrepreneurship programmes
- Agricultural initiatives
- Financial literacy programmes
- Market linkage activities
- Youth and women empowerment projects
- Digital inclusion programmes
Tips for Applicants
Strong applications should:
- Address clear livelihood challenges
- Demonstrate community involvement
- Focus on sustainable impact
- Support women and youth inclusion
- Present realistic implementation plans
Projects with innovative and locally relevant solutions may have stronger potential.
FAQ
Who is funding this programme?
The programme is funded by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
What is the main goal of the initiative?
The initiative aims to strengthen refugee livelihoods, self-reliance, and economic inclusion in Eswatini.
Who can apply?
Refugee-led organizations and community-based groups supporting refugees and asylum-seekers in Eswatini.
What activities are supported?
The programme supports vocational training, entrepreneurship, income generation, agriculture, financial inclusion, and women and youth empowerment initiatives.
What is the indicative budget?
The indicative budget for the call is 60,473.
Conclusion
The UNHCR Refugee Livelihoods and Economic Empowerment Grant in Eswatini supports refugee-led initiatives that promote sustainable livelihoods, economic resilience, and community empowerment. Through skills development, entrepreneurship, and inclusive economic opportunities, the programme aims to improve long-term self-reliance for refugees and asylum-seekers in Eswatini.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.