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AT THE GATE OF HOPE: REFUGEES SEEKING SHELTER IN KENYA
This is a safe space dedicated to answering questions from refugees who are seeking guidance and support in Kenya. Here, refugees can find clear information on how to apply for asylum, access essential services, and understand their rights and responsibilities while in the country. Our goal is to provide reliable answers and connect those in need with the right organizations and authorities who can assist them with shelter, documentation, healthcare, and protection. Every question matters because every refugee deserves to be heard, helped, and given hope for a peaceful future.
Q1: How can I apply for refugee status in Kenya?
You must register with the Department of Refugee Services (DRS) or UNHCR. You’ll be interviewed, and if your claim is accepted, you’ll receive an Asylum Seeker Certificate.
Q1: How can I apply for refugee status in Kenya?
Refugees are often settled in designated camps like Kakuma or Dadaab, but some receive permission to live in urban areas such as Nairobi.
What documents do I receive as a refugee?
You’ll receive a Refugee ID card and ration card (if in a camp). Urban refugees may get a refugee certificate for identification.
Education and Employment
Can my children go to school in Kenya?
Yes. Refugee children have the right to education, either in public schools or through special refugee education programs supported by NGOs.
Can I work or start a business as a refugee?
Refugees can work with a valid work permit from the DRS. Some NGOs also provide skills training and entrepreneurship support.
Healthcare and Support
Do refugees receive healthcare in Kenya?
Yes. Refugees can access free or subsidized healthcare through public hospitals or partner organizations such as Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).
What should I do if I face discrimination or abuse?
Report immediately to UNHCR protection officers, local police, or refugee legal aid organizations such as Refugee Consortium of Kenya (RCK).
Legal Rights and Movement
Can refugees move freely in Kenya?
Refugees in camps need a movement pass to travel outside. Urban refugees must carry their identification at all times.
How can I be resettled in another country?
Can refugees move freely in Kenya?
Resettlement is managed by UNHCR, but only a few refugees qualify based on vulnerability and security conditions.
Legal and Documentation
Can I become a Kenyan citizen?
Naturalization is very limited for refugees and requires long-term residence and special approval from the Kenyan government.
What happens if I lose my refugee ID or Asylum Seeker Certificate?
Report immediately to the Department of Refugee Services (DRS) or UNHCR office. They’ll guide you through the process of replacement after verifying your details.
Can I be arrested if I don’t have my documents?
Yes. Always carry your refugee identification or proof of registration. If you’re arrested, inform the officers that you are a registered refugee and contact UNHCR or RCK.
What rights do refugees have under Kenyan law?
Refugees have the right to protection, basic education, health care, and fair treatment, as stated in the Kenya Refugee Act (2021).
What rights do refugees have under Kenyan law?
Refugees have the right to protection, basic education, health care, and fair treatment, as stated in the Kenya Refugee Act (2021).
Can refugees vote in Kenya?
No, refugees cannot vote or participate in national elections but can take part in community leadership programs.
Housing and Settlement
Can I choose where to live in Kenya?
Most refugees are placed in designated camps like Kakuma and Dadaab. However, some can live in towns such as Nairobi with special permission from the DRS.
Is life in the camps safe?
The government and humanitarian agencies provide security, food, and shelter, but conditions can vary. Community policing and NGOs help improve safety and living standards.
Can I move to Nairobi from the camp?
You must apply for a Movement Pass or Urban Refugee Permit from the DRS explaining your reason (education, work, or medical treatment).
Housing and Settlement
Can I choose where to live in Kenya?
Most refugees are placed in designated camps like Kakuma and Dadaab. However, some can live in towns such as Nairobi with special permission from the DRS.
Is life in the camps safe?
The government and humanitarian agencies provide security, food, and shelter, but conditions can vary. Community policing and NGOs help improve safety and living standards.
Can I move to Nairobi from the camp?
You must apply for a Movement Pass or Urban Refugee Permit from the DRS explaining your reason (education, work, or medical treatment).
Education and Youth Empowerment
Are there scholarships for refugee students?
Yes. Organizations like Windle International Kenya, UNHCR, and Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) offer scholarships for secondary and higher education.
Can refugees join universities in Kenya?
Yes. Refugees can enroll in public and private universities if they meet the academic requirements. Some universities have special refugee programs.
Are there youth training programs for refugees?
Many NGOs such as DIGIKAZI ICT School, RefuSHE, and Youth Voices Community offer digital skills, tailoring, carpentry, and ICT training for young refugees.
Health and Mental Wellbeing
What should I do if I’m sick and cannot afford a hospital?
Visit a public hospital or an NGO health center in your area. Refugees in camps can access free care through partners like MSF and UNHCR Health Services.
Where can I find help for trauma or mental health issues?
Many organizations, including HIAS, UNHCR, and Jesuit Refugee Service, provide counseling and psychosocial support.
How can pregnant women get medical help?
Visit your nearest health center. Refugees have access to free maternal health services in both camps and public hospitals.
Resettlement and Family
How can I reunite with my family members abroad?
Family reunification programs are handled through UNHCR or IOM, based on legal documents proving the relationship, although YVC can also advice and refer to the above Organizations.
How long does resettlement take?
It can take months or even years, depending on eligibility, interviews, and the policies of the receiving country.
How can I join local community groups or youth organizations?
Visit centers like Youth Voices Community, RefuSHE, or Heshima Kenya — they register and involve refugees in empowerment and advocacy programs.
Can I return to my home country if I find peace there?
Yes, voluntary return is possible through UNHCR’s repatriation program, which ensures safety and assistance during the journey.
