By Wasike Elvis
Kenya is facing a severe funding shortfall in its refugee assistance programs, a situation exacerbated by recent aid freezes and budget cuts from developed countries. With over 800,000 refugees and asylum seekers currently residing in Kenya, the reduction in humanitarian support has placed an overwhelming burden on the country’s resources and ability to care for these vulnerable populations.
The impact of these cuts was starkly illustrated yesterday when refugees in the Kakuma Refugee Camp staged protests over the dramatic reduction in food rations. The World Food Programme (WFP), which has traditionally provided food aid to the refugees, is now only able to offer 40% of the minimum basic ration required to sustain them.
In a statement following the protests, the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Interior, Kipchumba Murkomen, expressed the deep concern the government holds over the situation. "Kenya has been a host country for refugees fleeing regional conflicts for more than three decades. We have shouldered the responsibility of providing healthcare, education, food, and security for these refugees. However, the recent reduction in humanitarian funding from developed countries presents a severe socio-economic strain on our nation,” Murkomen said.
Despite the financial and logistical challenges, Murkomen emphasized that turning away refugees would contradict the nation's core values of shared humanity. “To turn our backs on the most vulnerable people is not an option for Kenya. We remain committed to upholding the principles of compassion and support for refugees. But it is becoming increasingly clear that the financial burden on our country is unsustainable," he added.
To address the anticipated long-term funding shortfalls, Murkomen convened a critical meeting with Kenya’s humanitarian assistance partners. The meeting included the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Kenya, Dr. Stephen Jackson, along with heads of key agencies such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), UNICEF, the World Food Programme (WFP), and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Also present at the meeting was the Principal Secretary for Immigration and Citizen Services, Prof. Julius Kibet Bitok, among other ministry officials.
Murkomen noted that the discussions focused on developing both medium-term and long-term strategies to mitigate the effects of the funding cuts. “Our discussions today centered on how to ensure that the most vulnerable among us, especially refugees and asylum seekers, continue to receive the support they need. We must explore new mechanisms to secure funding, collaborate more effectively with international partners, and ensure that the global community steps up to meet its responsibilities,” said Murkomen.
The meeting underscored the need for developed countries to fulfill their financial obligations toward humanitarian aid. As Kenya continues to play a pivotal role in hosting refugees from the region, it is clear that the country cannot bear the full financial burden alone.
“We urge the international community, especially developed countries, to honor their commitments and provide the necessary financial support to assist in the care of refugees. Kenya has always been a leading host country, but it is vital that we all share the responsibility,” Murkomen concluded.
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