South Sudanese Members of the National legislative assembly have underscored that establishing a peaceful and stable environment in their homeland is vital for addressing the ongoing refugee crisis and mitigating further violence.
The Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya has recently witnessed rising tensions and incidents of violence.
According to accounts from refugees present during the events back in March, reports emerged of police clashing with protesters, resulting in at least five injuries and one fatality.
This unrest followed a protest in February, where camp residents voiced their frustrations after enduring five days without water, compounded by severe food shortages and inadequate healthcare services.
These demonstrations highlight the escalating desperation within the community as access to essential supplies diminishes.
A significant factor driving the protests is resistance to the host country’s policy aimed at integrating refugees into local communities.
Hon. Deng Dau, Member of Parliament for Twic East County, expressed concerns regarding how the local integration policy has restricted refugees’ access to crucial resources.
“The host country has an obligation to integrate refugees into local communities. However, our people are taken aback by this decision, which has led to numerous challenges. Implementing local integration often results in reduced food rations, which are vital for their survival,” stated Dau during a recent parliamentary session.
He further noted that some individuals have lost their lives due to clashes between refugees and local residents.
Dau recognized the limitations faced by South Sudan in safeguarding its citizens abroad.
“When conflicts arise, the responsibility to protect citizens falls on the nation, creating challenges for the country of origin to address the plight of refugees elsewhere.” He added
Rt. Hon. Jemma Nunu, Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA), emphasized the necessity of fostering peace within South Sudan.
“The responsibility for the resettlement of refugees and their repatriation lies with us as a nation. We must create a conducive environment for our people to return to their homeland,” Nunu urged.
“The onus is on us to establish peace and subsequently facilitate their safe return.” Said Nunu
Kakuma camp currently provides refuge to individuals from South Sudan, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burundi.
Since gaining independence in 2011 after years of civil conflict, South Sudan has faced renewed violence since 2013, resulting in widespread armed conflict, economic hardship, and hunger, compelling millions to seek safety beyond its borders.
Many South Sudanese have found refuge in neighboring nations, including Sudan, Uganda, Ethiopia, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Kakuma camp and the adjacent Kalobeyei settlement now house over 148,000 South Sudanese refugees, ranking among the largest refugee populations globally.
The recent violence at Kakuma highlights the pressing need for collaboration between South Sudan and its host nations, as well as comprehensive peace-building initiatives, to safeguard refugees and ensure their dignified return home.