The new United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Barham Salih, visited Kakuma refugee camp in northwestern Kenya on Monday, commending the country’s efforts to integrate refugees into local society. Established in 1992, Kakuma hosts tens of thousands of people fleeing conflict and instability in South Sudan, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Salih described the camp as a model of “inclusion and generosity,” highlighting Kenya’s policies that allow refugees access to education, healthcare, and local services.
“Helping refugees is about empowering them beyond dependency. Creating reliance violates their basic human rights and dignity,” Salih said after touring schools and health facilities. In April 2025, Kakuma was redesignated a municipality, paving the way for local government management while remaining under UN oversight. A former refugee and ex-president of Iraq, Salih said his personal experience will guide his leadership of the UNHCR, emphasizing empathy, pragmatism, and adherence to international law. After Kenya, Salih plans to visit refugee camps in Chad to assess conditions and discuss support with national authorities, aiming to replicate lessons learned from Kakuma across the region.
