As the world marks World Refugee Week and World Refugee Day, a call has been issued to communities and governments to recognize refugees not only as people in need of assistance, but also as important partners in social and economic development.
The Executive Director of the Refugee-Led Organization Network of Kenya (RELON Kenya), JeanPaul Kasika, said that many refugees in the country have demonstrated great resilience by starting businesses, creating job opportunities, and contributing to economic growth in the areas where they live.
“It is time to change the narrative about refugees. Beyond the challenges they face, many of them are leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and human rights advocates who contribute to community development,” said Kasika.
Kenya continues to be home to thousands of refugees who have fled war, persecution, and insecurity in their home countries.
However, many of them still face challenges in accessing formal employment, education, healthcare services, and essential legal documents.
According to Kasika, the perception that refugees rely solely on aid is outdated.
“The reality is that many refugees want to work, become self-reliant, and contribute to the communities in which they live. What often hinders them is a lack of documentation and equal opportunities to participate in economic activities,” he explained.
RELON Kenya has been advocating for the inclusion of refugees in decision-making processes and policies that affect their lives.
Kasika emphasized that the inclusion of refugees can bring benefits to both refugee and host communities.
“As we commemorate World Refugee Week, let us recognize refugees as partners in development. By promoting solidarity, equal opportunity, and inclusion, we will build stronger communities where no one is left behind,” he said.
He added that recognizing the contribution of refugees is an important step toward building a hopeful future for all in Kenya.Kenya is the only peaceful contry with capacity to hold refugees.
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