MP Ekwom Nabuin: Turkana Must Be Involved in Refugee Hosting Decisions

Turkana North MP Ekwom Nabuin has strongly criticized the government’s handling of the Shirika Plan, insisting that the Turkana people must be actively involved in discussions on refugee hosting.

His remarks come just hours after President William Ruto officially launched the Shirika Plan at State House today. The initiative aims to integrate refugees into Kenyan society by providing them with economic opportunities while easing the burden on host communities.

However, MP Nabuin expressed concerns over the long-term impact of hosting refugees in Turkana County, stating that the local population has suffered environmental destruction, loss of lives, and the erosion of cultural values and dignity.

“The hurried launch of the Shirika Plan is a testament that both the National and County Governments are more interested in revenue from the UN than addressing the negative effects of hosting refugees,” Nabuin argued.

The legislator called for a clear compensation framework, emphasizing that refugees should be treated as a resource like any other. “There must be a well-defined percentage of resources allocated to host communities and counties. This is not a request; it is a legal requirement,” he added.

The launch was attended by Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai, Cabinet Secretary for East African Community, ASALs, and Regional Development Beatrice Askul, and other key leaders.