NAIROBI, Kenya Mar 28 – President William Ruto on Friday launched a landmark programme that integrates refugees and the host communities in Kenya.
The Shirika Plan aims to promote socio-economic inclusion of refugees in the country by transforming camps into integrated settlements for both refugees and asylum seekers.
Speaking during the launch held at State House Nairobi, President Ruto said Kenya and partners have undertaken various initiatives to improve conditions for refugees and host communities.
“Accordingly, the Shirika Plan is our bold, home-grown solution which amplifies the African Union’s call for African solutions to Africa’s problems as well as global challenges,” President Ruto said.
The President pointed out that the Shirika’s strategy is to transform refugee camps into integrated settlements that give inclusion a new expression by promoting the creation of opportunity to benefits refugees and host communities alike.
“In so doing, it recognises the indispensable role of host communities, a number of which have provided exemplary compassion, patiently and generously extending hospitality for over 35 years, and places them at the heart of this vision,” he said.
He pointed out that the Plan’s integration comprises sectors such as education, health, livelihoods, social protection, and environmental management.
“As I speak to you, more than 70,000 refugees are enrolled for universal health coverage under the Social Health Insurance Fund, while IDs for refugees are recognised by the Integrated Population Registration System,” President Ruto said.
The President noted that partnerships with organisations such as the International Finance Corporation, Kenya Commercial Bank and Swedish International Development Agency guarantee funds that help catalyse financial inclusion of refugees, and engagement in entrepreneurship and job creation.
At the same time, President Ruto cautioned that the Plan should not be construed to mean that Kenya could ever be a dumping ground for refugees.
“This initiative does not mean that it’s an avenue for other countries to transport their people to Kenya as refugees or asylum seekers,” he warned.
Governors Jeremiah Lomorukai of Turkana and Nathif Jama (Garissa) said they would launch awareness programmes so that the residents embrace the initiative.
Source: capitalfm
