NAIROBI, Kenya- In a bid to ensure the safety and proper management of refugees, the Department of Refugee Services (DRS) and the UNHCR are gearing up for a thorough verification process of the refugees’ registration status.
This step comes ahead of their planned relocation back to their respective camps.
The government reiterated its commitment to the protection of refugees and asylum seekers, as well as the host communities that support them.
The catalyst for this verification process was an unfortunate incident on June 20, 2024, in Kakuma Refugee Camp.
A clash between two refugee communities disrupted the peace, causing a significant number of refugees to relocate.
These individuals, totaling 762 households and comprising 3,054 individuals, moved to Ruiru-Sub-county via both normal and hired public transport.
Swift action was taken by the DRS and Sub-County Security teams to restore calm in the affected areas.
Collaborative peace restoration meetings involving the UNHCR and other partners were held with the refugee communities, leading to a peace agreement.
This agreement is crucial as it sets the stage for the reintegration of refugees back into Kakuma Camp.
Kenya’s dedication to upholding its international obligations under the 1951 UN Convention and the 1967 Protocol on the status of refugees remains unwavering.
For over three decades, the government has diligently protected refugees and asylum seekers, ensuring they are safe and well-integrated within the country.
As the DRS emphasized, refugees and asylum seekers must respect Kenyan laws, maintain peace, and use proper channels to address grievances.
In light of recent events, the Kenyan government, along with the DRS and UNHCR, is taking proactive steps to verify and reintegrate refugees back into their camps, ensuring their safety and compliance with international standards.
Kenya’s long-standing commitment to refugee protection continues to be a beacon of hope and stability, even in challenging times.
