Refugees International has issued a call for urgent donor support and policy synchronization as Kenya embarks on significant reforms to its refugee system. These changes, essential for the integration of refugees into society, are jeopardized by severe cuts in foreign aid and existing legal and administrative hurdles.

The organization's recent report highlights the challenges following the introduction of the 2021 Refugee Act and the March 2025 Shirika Plan. This strategy aims to transition from traditional refugee camps to a model promoting long-term inclusion, offering access to national services, legal employment, and freedom of movement. Despite these ambitious plans, the current aid environment has dwindled, with the United States, a major donor, dramatically reducing its funding. Consequently, food assistance for nearly 800,000 refugees has been cut by 40%, and critical programs in education and health are suffering.

Moreover, the report details the plight of refugees in Kenya’s largest camps, Kakuma and Dadaab, where many have spent decades, and some were born and raised. The shift away from this encampment model outlined in the World Bank and UNHCR supported Shirika Plan requires nearly $1 billion for its initial phase, but a coordinated funding effort by donors is lacking.

The exclusion of refugee-led organizations (RLOs) from the decision-making process is another concern raised by the report. These organizations, crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, are recognized for their cost-effectiveness and trust within the community. Refugees International advocates for the integration of RLOs into the oversight mechanisms of the Shirika Plan, ensuring they receive direct funding and leadership roles in policy development.

One ongoing legal ambiguity involves the definition of “designated areas” under the 2021 Refugee Act, which affirms refugees' right to freedom of movement yet restricts this within unspecified zones. This has led to confusion over the legality of living or working outside designated areas near camps like Kakuma and Dadaab.

Reflecting on the structural challenges within Kenya’s refugee policy, a recent ruling by the High Court in Garissa has brought to light the wrongful classification of ethnic Somali Kenyan nationals as refugees, a practice dating back to the 1990s. This misclassification has denied many citizenship rights and access to public services. While the court ruled in favor of the affected individuals, full and effective implementation of this decision remains uncertain.

As Kenya's ambitious refugee policy reforms continue to face significant obstacles, sustained international support and clear policy directives are crucial to ensuring the successful integration and support of its refugee population.