April 7, 2025 – Turkana County, Kenya — In a groundbreaking move, the Government of Kenya, in partnership with humanitarian organizations, has unveiled an ambitious plan to transition the Kakuma Refugee Camp into a formal municipality. This shift aims to foster self-reliance and dignity for over 300,000 refugees who currently call the camp home.
Established in 1992, Kakuma has grown into one of Africa’s largest and most densely populated refugee settlements, primarily hosting displaced persons from South Sudan, Somalia, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. What began as a temporary haven has now evolved into a sprawling community with its own social dynamics, markets, schools, and healthcare centers. The move to recognize it as a municipality is both historic and pragmatic.
A Vision Rooted in Sustainability
According to officials from the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government, the new municipality model will provide refugees with greater opportunities for legal economic participation, access to services, and long-term integration with host communities.
“This is about moving from aid-dependency to self-reliance,” said David Mwangi, a senior official at the Ministry. “We want to empower residents to contribute meaningfully to local development and become part of the Kenyan economic fabric.”
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other partners have thrown their weight behind the initiative, highlighting its alignment with the global shift towards sustainable refugee solutions as outlined in the Global Compact on Refugees.
Key Challenges Ahead
Despite the optimism, the path to transformation is fraught with complex challenges. Access to basic services, especially water, remains a pressing concern in the arid Turkana region. The camp currently relies heavily on boreholes and water trucking—solutions that are costly and unsustainable in the long term.
Economic infrastructure is another hurdle. While Kakuma has a thriving informal economy, the lack of roads, banking systems, and access to credit stifles broader development. Many refugees also face legal barriers to movement and employment, limiting their ability to fully participate in the economy.
“We cannot ignore the realities on the ground,” said Esther Lemo, a community leader in Kakuma. “This transition must come with real investments in infrastructure, legal reforms, and inclusion.”
Local Integration and Social Cohesion
Turkana County officials have expressed cautious support for the initiative, emphasizing the need for equitable development that benefits both refugees and host communities. Tensions over resource sharing have occasionally flared in the past, and the success of the new municipality will depend on fostering harmony and joint ownership.
“It’s a win-win if done right,” said Governor Jeremiah Ekamais. “We must ensure that both Turkana residents and refugees see the benefits of this transformation.”
A Model for the Region?
If successful, the Kakuma transition could serve as a model for refugee settlements across Africa and beyond. It presents an opportunity to reimagine refugee assistance—not just as temporary shelter, but as a foundation for resilience and growth.
As Kenya takes this bold step, all eyes will be on Kakuma. Its journey from a camp to a city may redefine the future of refugee policy on the continent.
