President William Ruto has called on the international community to support Kenya’s efforts to integrate refugees into local communities.
The appeal comes as the government implements the Shirika Plan, aimed at promoting self-reliance among refugees and fostering socio-economic inclusion with host communities.
In a social media post, Ruto described Kenya as “a welcoming, secure nation” that has provided refuge to tens of thousands fleeing conflict in neighbouring countries over the past 40 years.
He noted that the government has collaborated closely with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to ensure displaced populations receive safety, stability, and a sense of belonging.
“Kenya has given them comfort, a home away from home, and a stable environment,” the President added.
The Shirika Plan, launched last year, is central to Kenya’s refugee strategy.
It seeks to reduce dependency by creating self-sufficient settlements where refugees can work, access education, and participate in local economic activities alongside host communities.
Ruto emphasized that the programme’s success depends on both national and international support.
The President made the remarks following a meeting with UN High Commissioner for Refugees Barham Salih at State Lodge Sagana in Nyeri County.
Discussions focused on strengthening partnerships and mobilizing resources to ensure the effective rollout of the integration programme.
Kenya’s approach reflects a commitment to providing durable solutions for displaced populations, balancing humanitarian support with community development.
Ruto’s appeal highlights the need for global engagement to help refugees transition from survival to self-reliance, reinforcing Kenya’s role as a regional leader in refugee protection.