Kenya receiving 20 refugees from South Sudan daily, says Mudavadi

Kenya is receiving at least 20 refugees from South Sudan daily due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis, Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has said.  

Speaking at the Senate plenary on Wednesday, April 2, Mudavadi noted that while the crisis continues to worsen, the influx of refugees has also posed security challenges for the country.  

“I think it should be on record that even as we speak, the situation in South Sudan is getting worse, and we are beginning to see again another inflow at the rate of about 20 refugees per day,” Mudavadi told the Senate.  

His remarks come as the government plans to repatriate Kenyan refugees currently residing in Ethiopia’s Dillo and Megado refugee camps, who have expressed interest in returning home.  

The Borana refugees fled to Ethiopia between 2005 and 2006 after being displaced from Marsabit County due to conflicts.  

"Currently, as I said, 4,993 individuals have expressed their desire to return back to Kenya, and the process of repatriation should begin,” he said.  

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However, Mudavadi acknowledged that the government must address several challenges to ensure a successful repatriation.  

“Where will the displaced persons return to? How will they be accommodated? That is, land, housing, among others,” he asked.  

He emphasized that returning refugees, who have relied on humanitarian assistance, will continue to need support.

 He assured them that the government would ensure their safety and security in settlement areas and organize a formal reception for them.  

“The refugees will require assurances of legal safety, rehabilitation, and the creation of livelihood opportunities. In some cases, this will also include the repossession of property, including ancestral land. Additionally, we need to address issues related to intermarriage,” he said.  

Mudavadi said that while the government will oversee the repatriation process, it will not provide any form of compensation.