In a landmark effort to promote peaceful coexistence and social integration, the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) hosted a week-long series of consultative forums from May 27th to 31st, 2025, in Kakuma, Turkana County. The initiative brought together political leaders, humanitarian agencies, host communities, and refugee representatives to address long-standing challenges and chart a path toward sustainable peace.
Held across five days, each forum focused on a specific constituency or stakeholder group, allowing for targeted discussions and inclusive participation. Political leaders—including Members of County Assembly (MCAs) and Ward Administrators—joined representatives from organizations such as UNHCR, RCK, World Vision, DRS, Don Bosco, Peace Wind Japan, and Windle International. The forums also welcomed youth, women, elders, and leaders from both host and refugee communities.
The event kicked off with a courtesy visit by NCIC Commissioner Hon. Abdul Aziz Ali Farah to UNHCR Kakuma Sub-office Head Mr. Nanduri Sateesh, reaffirming NCIC’s commitment to collaboration with humanitarian partners. Throughout the week, discussions tackled critical issues such as unequal access to resources, marginalization, land disputes, and lack of representation—barriers that have historically strained relations between host and refugee populations.
One of the critical sessions was the meeting with the hosting community, where residents voiced their concerns and learned about NCIC’s upcoming two-year integration programme. Similarly, the final day’s dialogue with refugee representatives provided firsthand insights into the root causes of conflict and the challenges of maintaining peace in Kakuma.
Commissioner Farah emphasized that peace is not only a constitutional imperative but also a cornerstone of sustainable development. “We must walk together in this journey of peacebuilding,” he urged, calling for shared responsibility and stronger partnerships.
The forums yielded several key outcomes: enhanced understanding between stakeholders, renewed commitment to social integration, and the foundation for future programs tailored to the unique needs of Kakuma’s diverse population. NCIC’s Deputy Director of Peacebuilding and Reconciliation Mr Liban Guyo reinforced the Commission’s mandate to eliminate ethnic discrimination and hate speech, and to foster unity.
This initiative marks a significant step toward building one Kenya—where diversity is embraced, voices are heard, and communities thrive together in peace.
NCIC Commissioner Hon. Abdulaziz Farah making the opening remarks during the Peace Forums in Kakuma, Turkana County
