Life In Kakuma Refugee Camp: Residence Amidst Adversity

Nairobi, 

Tuesday, 7 January, 2025 

McCreadie Andias

Nestled in the arid expanse of northwestern Kenya, Kakuma Refugee Camp stands as a testament to human resilience. 

located in Turkana District of the northwestern region of Kenya, 120 kilometers from Lodwar District Headquarters and 95 kilometers from the Lokichoggio Kenya-Sudan border. 

The camp was established in 1992 to shelter Sudanese refugees, and has since expanded to serve refugees from Somalia, Ethiopia, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Uganda, and Rwanda.

According to current UNHCR statistics, the camp population stands at just close to 180,000 refugees. In 2007, Kakuma Refugee Camp hosted 21% of the total refugee population in Kenya (UNHCR Fact Sheet, September 2008). 

Kakuma Refugee Camp is administered by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The UNHCR is assisted in its duties by a wide range of organizations, including World Food Program (WFP), International Organization for Migration (IOM), Lutheran World Federation (LWF), International Rescue Committee (IRC), Jesuit Refugee Services (JRS), National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), Windle Trust Kenya (WTK), Film Aid International, and Salesians of Don Bosco in Kenya.

The camp falls under the jurisdiction of the Kenyan Government and the Department of Refugee Affairs. Since the adoption of the Kenya Refugee Act in 2007, a CampManager has been appointed to oversee camp affairs and liaison with humanitarian agencies. The Act paves the way for the Kenyan Government to eventually assume full management of Kakuma Refugee Camp.

Daily Struggles in a Harsh Environment

The camp's semi-arid climate presents formidable challenges. Temperatures often soar to 40°C, and dust storms are frequent. Residents contend with limited access to clean water, inadequate sanitation, and the constant threat of diseases like malaria and cholera. 

Akeno Epeyon, a Kenyan mother residing near Kakuma, illustrates the dire healthcare situation. She treks for hours across the desert to secure medical treatment for her daughter at a facility within the camp. "Life is hard," she remarks, underscoring the scarcity of accessible healthcare services in the region. 

Economic Endeavors and Entrepreneurship

Despite restrictions on movement and employment, many refugees engage in entrepreneurial activities to sustain themselves. The camp hosts over 500 retail and wholesale shops, offering goods ranging from food items to electronics. Services such as restaurants, laundries, and internet cafes have also emerged, fostering a vibrant informal economy. 

Kitala, a refugee entrepreneur in Kakuma, shares his experience: "Life in Kakuma since COVID-19 started has been challenging. However, as an entrepreneur, I've learned to adapt and find ways to support my community through these times." 

Education: A Beacon of Hope

Education remains a critical avenue for empowerment within the camp. Numerous organizations provide primary and secondary education, vocational training, and skills development programs. However, challenges persist, including overcrowded classrooms and limited resources.

Former South Sudanese refugee, Anyier Yuol, reflects on her journey: "As a former refugee, a strong female voice, and a fashion model, I strive to be a role model for many young women. It's essential to support women—especially refugee women and girls—to better address their needs within the community." 

Healthcare Innovations

In recent years, healthcare services in Kakuma have seen notable improvements. The establishment of a pediatric operating theater by the Scottish charity Kids Operating Room (KidsOR) has been transformative. This facility, the first of its kind in a refugee camp, provides vital surgeries for children, significantly enhancing healthcare outcomes. 

Voices from Kakuma

Abuk, a refugee woman in Kakuma, recounts her three-decade-long journey: "I have been patient for more than 30 years." Her story highlights the enduring challenges faced by long-term refugees and underscores the need for sustainable solutions that go beyond basic aid. 

Life in Kakuma Refugee Camp is a complex tapestry of challenges and resilience. While the inhabitants face significant hardships, their stories reflect a steadfast determination to build better futures amidst adversity. Ongoing support and targeted interventions are essential to enhance their quality of life and foster self-reliance.