World Vision Kenya has issued a strong call for global solidarity with refugees as the world marks World Refugee Day 2025 under the theme “Solidarity with Refugees, Honouring Refugee Stories, Upholding Their Rights.” Amid rising global displacement and deepening humanitarian funding gaps, the organization is urging governments, donors, and communities to take meaningful steps to protect, empower, and integrate displaced populations.
Global Crisis DeepensAccording to recent statistics, more than 120 million people have been forcibly displaced worldwide, including over 36 million refugees who have crossed international borders due to conflict, climate change, and economic collapse.
The global response continues to be underfunded, with organizations like the World Food Programme (WFP) reporting severe cuts in food aid, further endangering millions of vulnerable lives.
Kenya remains a significant host of refugees in Africa. As of March 2025, the country shelters over 843,000 refugees and asylum seekers, with the majority residing in Kakuma and Kalobeyei settlements in Turkana County.
However, food rations have been reduced to just 40% of the minimum daily requirement, threatening widespread malnutrition and hunger.Through its DREAM-UP Project, funded by KOICA and implemented in partnership with World Vision Korea, World Vision Kenya is addressing the multifaceted needs of both refugees and host communities.
Key initiatives include:Peacebuilding: Establishment of peace committees and conflict resolution structures to foster social cohesion.Livelihoods: Training in climate-smart agriculture, livestock management, and market linkages to enhance self-reliance. Economic Empowerment: Cash transfers and skills development, with a special focus on women and youth.Integration and Dignity: Programs aligned with Kenya’s Shirika Plan and regional refugee frameworks.Impact So Far44,000 refugees have received livelihood training, agricultural inputs, and psychosocial support.161 farmers have adopted climate-resilient farming practices and are now generating income from surplus produce.
Thousands of households are benefitting from cash assistance, enabling investment in small businesses and basic needs.Over 160,000 people reached with General Food Distribution in Kakuma and Kalobeyei in partnership with the WFP.11,305 individuals supported through peacebuilding and sustainable livelihoods programs.1,500 households provided with clean water and sanitation under the UNICEF Prospect 2.0 Project.
World Vision Kenya emphasizes that refugees deserve safety, dignity, and opportunity, and that resilience must be built through collective action. The organization calls for the inclusion of refugee voices in policy-making and for the international community to recognize each refugee’s story as a testament to human strength and survival.
A Call to ActionWorld Vision Kenya urges:Increased investment in long-term solutions, including education, integration, and economic inclusion.
Strengthened food and cash assistance programs to meet basic needs with dignity. Peacebuilding and climate adaptation strategies to reduce resource-based tensions and promote harmony. “As the world marks World Refugee Day 2025, we are reminded that solidarity must be seen in action through policies that protect, investments that empower, and communities that welcome,”Gilbert Kamanga, National Director, World Vision Kenya.
World Vision Kenya continues to champion the rights and wellbeing of refugees, calling on all stakeholders to unite in transforming compassion into sustainable, life-affirming solutions.
