Refugees to access unique SIM cards, KRA pins in Kenya's intergration plan

Refugees will be issued unique SIM cards that will accord them the opportunity to apply for driving licences, among other initiatives, as part of a major effort to integrate them into the country’s social and economic fabric.

Speaking on Wednesday during a forum for the presentation of findings from the Kenya Longitudinal Survey of Refugees and Hosts, John Burugu, the Commissioner for Refugee Services, said the Department of Refugee Services has been working tirelessly to ensure that refugees have access to essential services.

Among the services are financial inclusion, housing, and identification documents.

"The Department of Refugee Services is working to provide refugees with unique SIM cards for enhanced security and driving licences using their refugee identification cards," he stated.

He mentioned a legal framework for refugees based on the Refugee Act 2021, which provides a solid legal foundation for refugee inclusion.

Burugu added that the Department of Refugee Services (DRS) has successfully advocated for the inclusion of refugees' IDS in Know Your Clients (KYC) documents, allowing refugees to access financial services.

Staekholders attend a forum for the presentation of findings from the Kenya Longitudinal Survey of Refugees and Hosts, on Wednesday, August 21, 2024. (Photo: Addis Standard Sources)

On taxation, he said refugees can now obtain KRA PIN numbers without the need for class M permits.

Through the Shirika Plan, an integrated settlements programme has been developed to improve the living conditions for refugees and host communities.

As part of the broader effort to provide refugees with equal opportunities and foster a more inclusive society, the commissioner further stated that the government is developing a refugee database to streamline services and facilitate coordination.

The Refugees Act of 2021, which came into effect in February 2022, provides new and additional opportunities, rights, protection, and solutions for refugees in Kenya.

It also recognises the contributions made by refugees to Kenya's development and further provides refugees with documentation to facilitate access to services and employment opportunities.