Kenya: Surge in South Sudan Fefugees Poses Challenge to Integration Plans - Mudavadi

Nairobi — Kenya is seeing a new wave of refugees from South Sudan. The crisis there is worsening, with about 20 refugees crossing the border daily.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi warned that this influx poses challenges. Ongoing security issues along the Ethiopia and Somalia borders add to these concerns. "The situation in South Sudan is getting worse," Mudavadi said.

Recent clashes between President Salva Kiir's forces and First Vice President Riek Machar raise fears of renewed war. Machar's arrest last week could reignite the civil war from 2013 to 2018, which killed around 400,000 people.

Security concerns are high in Kenya as well. The government is monitoring tensions along the Marsabit-Ethiopia border. Al-Shabaab activities in Somalia also pose risks.

Mudavadi responded to Marsabit Senator Mohammed Chute's questions about Kenyan refugees in Ethiopia. Many Kenyans fled due to inter-ethnic conflicts in Marsabit County. "Most refugees do not want to move to Borana areas," he stated.

These Kenyan refugees still have their identity cards and want to return home voluntarily, according to Mudavadi. He emphasized careful integration for incoming refugees during a Senate session.

"The integration must be done carefully," he said. Refugees should contribute to Kenya’s economy rather than just relying on resources.

A recent verification found that 4,993 individuals are ready to return home. However, security concerns and lack of resources complicate this process.

Mudavadi highlighted key issues needing attention before repatriation can happen: return destinations, accommodation, and humanitarian support must be ensured.

"Safety measures must be in place for their settlement areas," he explained. A formal reception process should also be established for returning refugees.

Legal protections are necessary for property repossession and ancestral lands as well. The government is already addressing Ethiopian refugee issues in Kakuma and Dadaab camps.