Mudavadi: Nearly 5,000 Kenyan refugees in Ethiopia seek to return home
Nearly 5,000 Kenyan refugees living in Ethiopia’s Dillo and Megado towns have expressed their desire to return home, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has revealed.
The refugees, who fled ethnic conflicts in 2000 that culminated in the Turbi massacre, have been residing in settlements within the Borana Zone of Oromia State.
However, they continue to face significant challenges, particularly in accessing water and sanitation, due to the remote nature of these locations and inadequate infrastructure.
Mudavadi assured that while the government is committed to facilitating their return and reintegration, no financial compensation will be provided.
“The Kenyan and Ethiopian governments should engage in consultations facilitated by the UNHCR regional bureau and local UNHCR offices,” he said while addressing the Senate on Wednesday.
He further noted that before repatriation begins, the government must address critical aspects such as resettlement locations, accommodation arrangements, and security provisions to ensure the safety of the returnees.
He also emphasized the importance of granting Kenyan nationality to those born in Kenya.
According to Mudavadi, 2,060 refugees are currently in Dillo, while Megado hosts 3,600.
In total, the settlements accommodate 1,250 households, amounting to 5,671 individuals, including 2,788 males, 2,883 females, and 3,385 children.
Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale questioned why the process was being delayed despite the UNHCR’s readiness to facilitate the return.
“Over 4,000 refugees have expressed their desire to return home. The UNHCR is ready and willing to fund the programme, and the refugees have identified where they want to go. Where is the problem?” he asked.
Other senators also sought clarity on how the government plans to integrate the returning refugees into Kenyan communities.
Turkana Senator James Lomenen raised concerns about host communities not being adequately involved in the discussions, warning that this could lead to conflicts.
“Enough time has not been given to host communities to be informed about how they can integrate with the refugees, and that is creating conflict and hostilities,” he said.
Marsabit Senator Mohamed Chute criticized Mudavadi’s response, describing it as lacking clear timelines.
“I want the CS to tell us when the last time people from his office visited these refugees,” Chute stated.