The Benet people are a small sub-group of the Sabinyas indigenous to the slopes of Mt. Elgon in Uganda. Stretching back to colonial times there has been a land dispute between the government and the Benet people over a strip of land at the base of Mt. Elgon National Park. Up till now the Benet people have been allowed to remain in the park living their traditional lifestyle.

However, after the killing of a Belgian tourists hiking in Mt. Elgon National Park in February, the Uganda Wildlife Authority determined to evict all persons living within the park. On February 16, 2008 the Benet people were given two to four hours to vacate their homes and leave the park. Homes, food stores, livestock and most personal possessions of the Benet people were destroyed or lost in the process. As a result, most of the community has no place to go. They have been living with local relatives, in temporary shelters in IDP camps, or in caves. Because of Mt. Elgon's location the temperature can be cold, it is often windy and the rainy season is only weeks away.

The displacement will increase the risk of disease, food shortages, and increase crime within the IDP camps. Partnering with Samaritans Purse and Action Aid, Food for the Hungry is working to provide for the immediate needs of each of the 400 families by distributing blankets, tarps for temporary shelters, Jerry Cans, water purification tablets, and food. They are also encouraging the community members to dig pit latrines where displaced persons are heavily concentrated.

Long-term concerns include the permanent resettlement of the Benet people. Finding new land to farm since all their farm lands were inside the boundaries of the park. Replacing the loss of animals, farming equipment and household materials. Also health problems will increase due to low food supply, inadequate shelter, poor hygiene, limited medical care, and dense population.

Please pray for the Benet people, FH and other organizations as they work to meet the immediate needs of the people. Also pray as decisions are made about the long-term needs in finding a suitable permanent relocation site and restoring the livelihoods of the Benet people.