Kakuma Refugees Win Historic Political Participation Rights in Turkana County
Kakuma, 5 February 2026
Refugees living in Kakuma and Kalobeyei settlements have secured groundbreaking political participation rights following successful advocacy by the Refugee Consortium of Kenya. The landmark decision transforms Turkana County Assembly’s governance structure, formally integrating refugee affairs into its legislative framework for the first time.
Assembly Structure Transformed Through Strategic Amendments
The Refugee Consortium of Kenya joined the County Assembly of Turkana in launching amended Standing Orders and the Assembly’s Strategic Plan (2023-2027), marking a significant advancement in inclusive governance [1]. The historic amendments expand the mandate of the Assembly’s Committee on Justice, Human Rights and Legal Affairs, which will now be known as the Committee on Justice, Human Rights, Legal and Refugee Affairs [1]. This structural change formally integrates refugee affairs into Turkana County’s legislative framework, reflecting the Assembly’s commitment to inclusivity, accountability, and progressive governance [1].
Multi-Partner Collaboration Drives Legislative Reform
RCK played a central role in developing and refining both the Strategic Plan and the Assembly’s Standing Orders under an existing Letter of Agreement with Turkana County Assembly [1]. The advocacy organisation worked alongside partners including VNG International, Regional Durable Solutions Secretariat (ReDSS), and Inkomoko, providing technical, legal, and policy support throughout the amendment process [1]. The collaborative effort also received backing from multiple international partners, including UNICEF, DANIDA, UNHCR, Jesuit Refugee Service, the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands [1].
Leadership Recognition and Constitutional Alignment
The Rt Honourable Speaker Charles Lokioto recognised RCK’s invaluable contribution to the Assembly’s institutional growth and legislative reforms, noting that the changes respond to emerging governance needs [1]. The amendments uphold the principles of public participation and inclusion embedded in the Kenyan Constitution, ensuring that legislative processes respond to the realities of both refugee and host communities in Turkana County [1]. RCK’s Executive Director, Barlet Colly Jaji, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting the Assembly’s efforts to champion inclusive governance, emphasising policies that recognise the dignity and contributions of displaced populations [1].
Integration with Broader Development Programmes
The legislative reforms complement the ongoing Inclusive Refugee Response Programme (IRRP), supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark and implemented by RCK and partners [1]. This programme supports both the National Government and Turkana County Government in expanding access to basic social services, enhancing self-reliance, and strengthening peaceful coexistence between refugee and host communities [1]. The amendments reflect a shared commitment between RCK, the County Assembly, and development partners to build systems that promote accountability, protection, and participation for all communities living in Turkana County [1]. [alert! ‘Exact date of the landmark decision not specified in source material’]