UNHCR Praises Kenya’s Integration Efforts in Kakuma Camp. Nairobi, Kenya — 2026-01-13 Lead Paragraph The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has lauded Kenya’s efforts to integrate refugees in the Kakuma camp, which opened in 1992 to accommodate individuals fleeing conflicts in South Sudan, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The UNHCR’s visit, led by Barham Salih, a former refugee and former President of Iraq, highlighted the camp as a model for “inclusion and generosity “and a pathway to sustainable solutions for refugees.
During his visit, Salih emphasized that Kakuma camp stands out as a beacon for protection and inclusion, advocating for long — term solutions that move refugees beyond dependence on humanitarian assistance. He noted that Kenya’s redesignation of Kakuma as a municipality in April 2025, to be managed by local government officials, is a significant step towards this goal.
Salih also visited health facilities and schools within the camp, commending Kenya’s integration policies.
He stated that refugees deserve the opportunity to be productive members of society and that supporting their independence aligns with their basic human rights and dignity. His own experience as a former refugee informs his approach to leading the UNHCR, grounded in empathy, pragmatism, and adherence to international law.
The UNHCR Commissioner also mentioned his intention to assess the situation of refugees in Chad and explore ways to provide support.
This reflects the UNHCR’s commitment to addressing the broader context of refugee crises in the region.
The visit of the UNHCR to Kakuma camp underscores the ongoing efforts to integrate refugees into local communities and support their sustainable integration. Further details on the outcomes of the visit and subsequent actions are expected to emerge in the coming days.
