Government Officials Push for Integrated Refugee Settlements

 

To transition refugee camps into integrated settlements that promote sustainable socio-economic inclusion, the Ministry of Interior & National Administration, through the State Department for Migration and Citizen Services, is taking a transformative approach to refugee management.

As part of this initiative, government officials paid a courtesy visit to the Deputy Governor's Office to foster collaboration between national and county governments. 

Deputy Governor Hon.Evans Kapkea supported the initiative and called on fruitful discussions on the policy document that will serve as a guideline. 

"The County government has been supporting inclusivity and cordial engagements stating that Uasin Gishu residents appreciate the services taken to the locals, " he said. 

The discussions centred on the need for a shift from traditional refugee camps to integrated settlements that empower both refugees and host communities through economic opportunities, social services, and infrastructure development.

This initiative aligns with Kenya’s commitment to the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (CRRF) and the Shirika Plan, which emphasize self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods for refugees.

The government aims to create environments where refugees can contribute to the local economy, access education and healthcare, and integrate seamlessly into society.

Counties such as Garissa and Turkana, which host large refugee populations, are expected to benefit significantly from this shift. The approach seeks to enhance stability and development in these regions by promoting economic activities, vocational training, and local business partnerships.

The meeting marks an important step in ensuring a whole-of-government approach to refugee management. Stakeholders from various government agencies, county administrations, and development partners collaborated in implementing policies that facilitate this transition.

With the government’s commitment to pioneering a more sustainable refugee response, the focus now shifts to policy formulation, resource mobilization, and community engagement to make integrated settlements a reality.

February 26, 2025