HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 2024: Building Bridges: Strengthening Refugee and Host Communities Integration in Kakuma Refugee Camp and Kalobeyei Integrated Settlement
HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 2024
Building Bridges: Strengthening Refugee and Host Communities Integration in Kakuma Refugee Camp and Kalobeyei Integrated Settlement
On the 2024 Human Rights Day, marked on 10th December 2024, Kakuma town in Turkana County came to life with a powerful display of solidarity and advocacy under the theme: Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now. The locals, refugees, Civil Society Organizations (CSO’s), State and non-state actors came together in a spirited march to mark the conclusion of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), symbolizing the unwavering commitment to human rights and justice for all. Refugees and host communities walked side by side, their voices united in a call for equality, dignity and inclusion.
The event, organized under the Haki Na Ushirikiano project, underscored the urgent need for meaningful refugee and host community integration. Kakuma, home to one of the largest refugee settlements in Kenya, has long been a melting pot of cultures, resilience and aspirations. However, despite coexisting in the same geographical space, refugees and host communities often face barriers that hinder true social and economic cohesion. Haki Na Ushirikiano seeks to break these barriers through legal empowerment, advocacy and fostering partnerships that promote peaceful coexistence.
The integration efforts were further reinforced through cultural performances, showcasing the rich diversity of Kakuma’s communities. Traditional songs, dances and short skits not only entertained but also reminded participants of the shared humanity that binds them together.
Insightful speeches on human rights were delivered by Dr. Raymond Nyeris, the Vice Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), alongside dedicated law enforcement officials and esteemed partners such as the Refugee Consortium of Kenya (RCK) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
Furthermore, KNCHR called upon residents of Turkana County to embrace peace in order to enjoy the various Human Rights they should be enjoying like Kenyans in other regions in Kenya. Dr. Nyeris pointed out that residents of that region often miss out on enjoying some of their rights due to the insecurity in the region. “…Tukiishi kwa Amani tutapatia serikali nafasi ya kutuletea maendeleo. Mahali kuna Amani kuna kudumisha haki za binadamu. Mahali kuna vita hakuna haki za binadamu. Tuishi kwa Amani ili tufurahie haki zetu za binadamu…” said Dr. Raymond Nyeri.
The region experiences a unique environment where different local communities like Turkana and neighboring Pokot communities live together with the refugee community. “…There are over 300,000 refugees across Kakuma and 800,000 across Kenya. Our collective efforts are needed to uphold their human rights, including some of host communities,” added Janet Pima a senior protection officer from the UN Refugee Agency, UNHCR.
The host communities have also been urged to co-exist peacefully with the refugees. The refugees were called upon to observe the rule of law. Locals were also encouraged to grant their children their right to education and take them to school so that they can have a good future. “…Tupelekeni watoto wetu shule. Ni vizuri tuelimishe watoto ili wawe na future nzuri. Tuko na County government, lakini watoto wasiposoma tutakosa watu wa kuajiri. Elimu ni haki ya watoto. Tupeleke watoto shule na tuishi kwa Amani…” added Dr. Raymond Nyeris.
Education has been mentioned to be one of the most effective tools in ensuring the region remains peaceful in future by empowering the next generation. On its part the County government promised to work with all stakeholders to ensure equitable distribution of resources to avert conflicts that arise amongst local host communities and refugees. Turkana West Sub-County administrator Christine Nalemsekon represented the County Government in the function and said, “…As government we are the duty bearers. We have a responsibility in ensuring citizens enJoy their rights. Hata hivyo wewe kama mwananchi una jukumu la kusaidia serikali so that the state can protect you in enjoying those rights. The issue of resources also brings issues because the resources are scarce. They will never be enough for everybody.”
As the day drew to a close, it was evident that the spirit of ‘Haki Na Ushirikiano’ had ignited a renewed sense of collaboration and hope. The project continues to advocate for policies that facilitate economic empowerment, access to education and protection of human rights for both refugees and host communities.
The march and subsequent engagements were more than just symbolic; they were a clarion call for action. True integration is not just about shared spaces, it is about shared opportunities, shared dignity and a collective commitment to justice. As stakeholders & partners continue to work towards inclusive solutions, the message from Kakuma remains clear: a future built on rights and equity must begin right now.
Dr. Raymond Nyeris, Vice Chairperson KNCHR (with black cap and holding the Kenyan flag) officially flagging of the solidarity march marking the end of the 16 days of activism against Gender Based Violence (GBV) in Kakuma Town, Turkana County on 10th December, 2024. The march dubbed "Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now" not only commemorated the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV but also served as a platform for advocacy, solidarity, and community engagement in the ongoing fight against GBV and femicide in Kenya.