Kakuma refugee camp evolves into a city in Kenya

In 2023, Kakuma camp, located in Kenya, has been home to 300,000 refugees for over three decades since its establishment in 1992. The camp has faced recent tensions, including clashes between refugees and police over diminishing food rations and support. In response to ongoing challenges and the need for long-term solutions, the Kenyan government alongside humanitarian groups has initiated an ambitious plan aimed at transforming the refugee camp into a functioning city. This plan not only seeks to improve the living conditions of the refugees but also focuses on integrating them into the local economy. By redesignating Kakuma as a municipality, it will eventually be managed by local government officials instead of solely under United Nations management. However, the transformation remains complex, as many refugees face restrictions on mobility within Kenya, limiting their job opportunities in areas where employment prospects are more promising. Deborah Mubalama's story, a refugee who ventured to Kakuma from Congo, illustrates these struggles and the search for economic stability amidst challenging circumstances. Despite receiving substantial loans to start her business, she navigates the hurdles of survival in a new environment. The broader aim is to shift away from prolonged aid dependency, with plans to provide refugees with the tools needed to become economically self-sufficient. Nevertheless, the lack of access to citizenship for most refugees raises questions about the extent to which they can fully integrate into Kenyan society and thrive.