Refugee IDs Kenya: IRC Calls for Streamlined Shirika Plan
Bridging the Gap: Refugees in Kenya Urge Streamlined ID Process Amidst Integration Push
Nairobi, Kenya – As Kenya embarks on an ambitious new chapter in refugee management with the Shirika Plan, humanitarian organizations are highlighting a critical hurdle hindering the successful integration of refugees: the arduous process of obtaining essential identification documents. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is leading a renewed call for a simplified, accessible, and obvious system for refugee identification, arguing it is paramount for refugees to fully benefit from new opportunities and live with dignity.
The current system for acquiring a refugee ID is fraught with “bottlenecks,” according to Winnie Shiundu, a representative from the IRC. “Many refugees have given up along the way,” she stated, noting that successful applicants often rely on the assistance of human rights organizations. This difficulty in obtaining a refugee ID severely curtails access to vital services and opportunities.With a valid ID,refugees can apply for a Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN,enroll in the Social Health Authority for medical coverage,obtain travel documents,and access legal services.
fatima Ali,a refugee from Dadaab,shared a poignant account of how the lack of documentation is impacting the youth in her community. “Many youths have missed out on employment and scholarship opportunities because they lack the ID,” Ali explained. “without it, they cannot apply for scholarships or even interact freely with the host communities.” She also pointed out that some refugees are unable to access crucial services from the UNHCR due to the absence of proper identification.
The recently launched shirika Plan, introduced in March 2025, aims to move away from confining refugees in camps and instead foster their integration into local communities. president William Ruto has championed the plan as a “homegrown solution” that aligns with the African Union’s vision of African-led solutions to African challenges. The initiative seeks to transform refugee camps into integrated settlements, creating opportunities for both refugees and host communities.
“As I speak to you, more than 70,000 refugees are enrolled for worldwide health coverage under the Social Health Insurance Fund, and IDs for refugees are now recognised by the Integrated Population Registration System,” President Ruto announced, underscoring the government’s commitment to including refugees in growth plans, education, healthcare, and financial systems. He also appealed to international partners for increased support to ensure the plan’s success.Echoing the sentiment, UN High commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi lauded the Shirika Plan as ”progressive” and a meaningful stride in alleviating the hardships faced by refugees whose lives are frequently enough disrupted by camp living.
However, the IRC’s advocacy underscores that policy advancements alone are insufficient. for the Shirika Plan to truly succeed, the government must dismantle the practical barriers to obtaining refugee IDs. Humanitarian organizations argue that a fast, transparent, and accessible documentation system is essential. This will not only empower refugees to access education, healthcare, and economic inclusion but will also foster greater social cohesion between refugee populations and their host communities. without this essential step, the promise of integration risks remaining unfulfilled for many.