Kenya has reiterated its commitment to supporting refugees despite growing security concerns over dwindling resources in the country’s refugee camps. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen assured that humanitarian aid in Daadab, Kakuma, and Kalobeyei camps would continue uninterrupted, easing fears of food ration cuts.
Speaking after a closed-door meeting with ambassadors, high commissioners, and international donors in Nairobi, Murkomen acknowledged the growing strain on resources but emphasized that the government was working on long-term solutions under the Shirika Plan.
This new policy initiative aims to integrate refugees into Kenya’s socioeconomic structure, allowing them to contribute productively to the economy while also benefiting host communities.
Murkomen praised Kenya’s humanitarian partners for their continued support, highlighting their critical role in easing the burden of hosting over 800,000 refugees. He particularly commended the United States government for lifting a ban on humanitarian funding, a move expected to alleviate financial constraints on refugee programs.
The high-level meeting also addressed security concerns following recent protests in Kakuma, where refugees decried food ration cuts due to shifting donor funding policies. Murkomen assured stakeholders that the situation had been stabilized and reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to ensuring both security and humanitarian support for refugees.
Envoys and international partners at the meeting welcomed the Shirika Plan, acknowledging its potential to uplift refugees and host communities alike. They emphasized the need for public participation and legal reforms to ensure its smooth rollout.
Among those present were US Embassy Charge d’Affaires and Refugee Donor Group Chair Amb. Marc D. Dillard, UN Resident Coordinator Dr. Stephen Jackson, and UNHCR Country Representative Caroline Van Buren. Also in attendance were Principal Secretary for Immigration and Citizen Services Prof. Julius Bitok and other government officials.
