By Dorothy Musyoka
Kenya has reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to providing refuge, protection and opportunity to displaced persons, even as it calls on the international community to support the successful implementation of the Shirika Plan.
According to President William Ruto,Kenya has worked with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to host and support tens of thousands of refugees and immigrants fleeing war, conflict and instability in neighbouring countries.
Kenya last year launched the Shirika Plan an ambitious and forward-looking framework aimed at integrating refugees into local communities.
The plan promotes self-reliant settlements and socio-economic inclusion, benefiting both refugees and host communities.
By focusing on access to livelihoods, services and opportunities, the Shirika Plan seeks to transition refugees from long-term dependency on humanitarian assistance to sustainable self-reliance.
As the rollout of this transformative programme gains momentum, Kenya has called for strong international partnership and shared responsibility.
“As this noble and ambitious plan is being rolled out, we ask the international community to support the programme,” stated President Ruto.
The Government has urged the global community to provide financial, technical, and development support to ensure the plan delivers lasting impact for refugees and host populations alike.
These issues were discussed during a meeting with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Mr. Barham Salih, held at State Lodge Sagana in Nyeri County.
Kenya remains committed to upholding humanitarian principles, regional stability, and inclusive development, and continues to champion innovative approaches that align refugee protection with national development.