The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Barham Salih, visited the Kakuma refugee camp in north-west Kenya on Monday, praising the country’s efforts to integrate refugees into local communities. Established in 1992, the camp has provided a safe haven for individuals fleeing conflicts in South Sudan, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
During his visit, Salih commended Kenya’s approach to refugee management, noting that the camp serves as a model for “inclusion and generosity” in refugee protection. He emphasized the importance of creating sustainable solutions that enable refugees to become self-sufficient, rather than relying on long-term humanitarian assistance. The redesignation of Kakuma as a municipality in April 2025, which will be managed by local government officials, is a significant step towards achieving this goal.
Salih also visited the camp’s health facilities and schools, acknowledging Kenya’s efforts to provide refugees with access to essential services. He stressed that refugees deserve to be included in local communities and empowered to manage their own situations, allowing them to become productive members of society. The former president of Iraq, who himself experienced life as a refugee, brings a unique perspective to his leadership role, grounded in empathy, pragmatism, and a commitment to international law.
The Kakuma refugee camp has been under UN management since its inception, but the transition to local governance is expected to enhance the camp’s self-sufficiency. Salih’s visit to Kakuma is part of a broader effort to assess the refugee situation in the region. He is scheduled to visit refugee camps in Chad next, where he will meet with national leadership to discuss ways to support refugees and host communities.
The UN refugee agency’s efforts to promote refugee integration and self-sufficiency are critical in addressing the complex challenges faced by displaced populations worldwide. As the global refugee crisis continues to evolve, the importance of finding sustainable solutions that balance humanitarian needs with long-term development goals cannot be overstated. Salih’s visit to Kakuma and upcoming trip to Chad underscore the need for international cooperation and support in addressing the root causes of displacement and promoting durable solutions for refugees.
