Garissa and Turkana counties pledge support for integration plan for refugees

Leaders from Garissa and Turkana counties reaffirmed their commitment to supporting an integration plan for refugees and host communities funded by the European Union. During the second Steering Committee Meeting for the EU Trust Fund Project for Refugees and Hosting Communities in Kenya held in Nairobi, county executives expressed their genuine dedication to the success of the program.

Garissa County Deputy Governor Abdi Dagane highlighted the challenges faced by the county, hosting the largest refugee complex for over three decades. These challenges, with environmental and socio-economic consequences, impact both refugees and host communities. Dagane emphasized that the EU's intervention through the integrated plan marks the beginning of a transformative approach addressing the social and economic needs of both groups.

Describing the integration plan as an innovative sustainable development model, Dagane stated, "It will promote the economic growth of Garissa county, particularly refugee-hosting sub-counties, through alternative sustainable livelihoods." He also mentioned the ongoing Dadaab Level 4 hospital funded under the program, aiming to provide quality healthcare services to both host communities and refugees.

Dagane further highlighted collaborative efforts with UNHCR and the Danish Refugee Council in undertaking an Area-Based Livelihood Initiative funded by the EU for both refugees and host communities. He emphasized significant achievements in peace and conflict management, providing scholarships for refugees and host communities, skill-building, and dryland farming.

The EU Trust Fund Project aims to support the government in implementing the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework and Resilience Building for both refugees and host communities. Irene Girbaldi, the EU's Head of Cooperation, appreciated the cooperation from the counties representing host communities, expressing their commitment to the successful implementation of the program.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Stephen Jackson, the UN Resident Coordinator, Caroline Van Buren, UNHCR Country Representative, John Burugu of the Department of Refugee Affairs, and officials from the Turkana County Government.