Kenya has highlighted the urgent need for increased international support as it continues to host one of Africa’s largest refugee populations.
President William Ruto made the appeal at the opening of the 14th International Association of Refugee and Migration Judges World Conference in Nairobi, underscoring the challenges the country faces in balancing humanitarian responsibility with national resources.
According to Ruto, nearly 800,000 refugees and asylum seekers currently live in Kenya, many fleeing conflict and instability in neighbouring states such as Somalia, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The President emphasized that while Kenya remains committed to offering protection, the scale of displacement requires broader engagement from the international community.
Ruto highlighted the Shirika Plan, a government initiative designed to strengthen legal and institutional mechanisms for refugee management.
The framework focuses on enabling refugees to rebuild their lives with dignity, ensuring access to essential services, and supporting host communities facing the pressures of sustained humanitarian inflows.
“True solidarity is not charity; it is a commitment to justice for refugees,” Ruto said in his statement on X, urging global partners to contribute through financial assistance, resettlement programs, and technical cooperation.
The President also called on judges participating in the conference to uphold integrity, independence, and fairness in handling cases involving refugees and migrants.
He noted that sound judicial decisions are crucial in protecting the rights of displaced persons, ensuring they receive fair treatment under national and international law.
Kenya’s refugee hosting role has long been central to regional humanitarian efforts. Camps in Dadaab and Kakuma, along with urban settlements, have absorbed waves of displaced people over the past three decades, making Kenya a focal point for donor support and regional stability initiatives.
The conference brings together legal experts and policymakers from across the globe to examine trends in migration, share best practices, and explore reforms to strengthen the international response to forced displacement.
Ruto’s appeal underscores Kenya’s position as both a frontline host nation and a regional leader advocating for fairer global responsibility in addressing the needs of refugees