Kenya Creates Path for Refugee Business Ownership Through New Registration Guide
Nairobi, 17 April 2026
The Refugee Consortium of Kenya has launched a comprehensive guide enabling refugees to legally register sole proprietorship businesses, marking a significant shift from aid dependency to entrepreneurial self-reliance. This initiative comes as Turkana County demonstrates remarkable economic growth, with revenue collection surging 241% above targets in 2023/24, suggesting fertile ground for refugee enterprise development. The step-by-step business registration guide addresses critical gaps in economic empowerment within Kenya’s refugee communities, providing practical pathways for legitimate business ventures that could contribute to both individual livelihoods and broader county economic performance.
Legislative Framework Supports Refugee Enterprise
The timing of this business registration guide aligns strategically with significant legislative developments in Turkana County, where many of Kenya’s refugees reside [GPT]. The Refugee Consortium of Kenya played a central role in developing amendments to the County Assembly’s Standing Orders, which now formally integrate refugee affairs into Turkana County’s legislative framework [1]. The Assembly’s Committee on Justice, Human Rights and Legal Affairs has expanded its mandate to include refugee affairs, becoming the Committee on Justice, Human Rights, Legal and Refugee Affairs [1]. This institutional change reflects the county’s commitment to inclusive governance and creates a supportive environment for refugee entrepreneurship initiatives.
Strong Economic Environment for New Businesses
Refugees entering the business landscape will find themselves in one of Kenya’s most economically dynamic counties. Turkana has emerged as one of the most improved counties in own-source revenue collection, posting an impressive 241% performance against its targets in the 2023/24 financial period [2]. According to Kenya Revenue Authority Chairman Ndiritu Muriithi, Turkana ranks among the ten most improved counties that exceeded their targets, alongside Vihiga at 136% and Kirinyaga at 118% [2]. This robust economic performance suggests a growing business environment that could provide opportunities for refugee entrepreneurs to establish and grow their ventures.
Partnership Approach to Implementation
The business registration initiative operates within a broader framework of institutional support developed through strategic partnerships. RCK has worked closely with the County Assembly under an existing Letter of Agreement, collaborating with partners including VNG International, Regional Durable Solutions Secretariat (ReDSS), and Inkomoko to provide technical, legal, and policy support [1]. Executive Director of RCK, Barlet Colly Jaji, has reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting inclusive governance efforts that recognise the dignity and contributions of displaced populations [1]. These partnerships strengthen the foundation for sustainable refugee entrepreneurship by ensuring coordinated support across multiple stakeholders.
Ongoing Revenue Development Opportunities
The focus on revenue generation and business development continues with upcoming professional development opportunities. The Own-Source Revenue Conference is scheduled for 22-23 April 2026 at Tamarind Tree Hotel, bringing together county officials and experts to share best practices in revenue collection and management [2]. This event, occurring just days after the release of the business registration guide, provides an immediate opportunity for refugee entrepreneurs and support organisations to engage with revenue experts and learn about sustainable business practices. The amendments to Turkana’s legislative framework complement the ongoing Inclusive Refugee Response Programme, supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark and implemented by RCK and partners, which supports both the National Government and Turkana County Government in expanding access to basic social services and enhancing self-reliance [1].