The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the Garissa County Government, has launched a pivotal workshop in Dadaab to promote peacebuilding, social cohesion, and effective refugee management.
The initiative brings together community stakeholders to address longstanding disparities between host and refugee communities, fostering cooperation and paving the way for inclusive development in one of Kenya’s largest refugee-hosting areas.
An update from the Garissa County Government explained that the workshop focuses on critical issues, including unequal access to services, economic opportunities, political representation, and human rights between host communities and refugees in Dadaab.
Discussions also center on the Shirika Plan, the Kenyan government’s strategy for integrating refugees into local communities.
Stakeholders emphasized the need for stronger community participation to ensure the plan’s success, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts to bridge gaps and reduce tensions.
By engaging local leaders, community members, and refugee representatives, the forum seeks to create actionable solutions that promote equity and mutual understanding.
The Shirika Plan, a cornerstone of the discussions, outlines a framework for transforming refugee camps into integrated settlements, enabling refugees to access education, healthcare, and economic opportunities alongside host communities.
However, participants noted that effective implementation requires robust community involvement to address local concerns and ensure sustainable outcomes.
Garissa County, home to the Dadaab refugee complex, hosts one of the world’s largest refugee populations, making initiatives like this critical for social cohesion.
The workshop’s focus on disparities in services and opportunities underscores the county’s commitment to creating a more inclusive environment where both refugees and host communities can thrive.
As the dialogue progresses, UNDP and the Garissa County Government are optimistic about building stronger partnerships to support the Shirika Plan and promote peacebuilding.