Principal Secretary

Today, I held discussions with Amb. Dr. Ed Barnett MBE, Deputy British High Commissioner to Kenya, on strengthening Kenya–United Kingdom cooperation in refugee protection, migration governance and regional stability.

The engagement addressed preparations for the upcoming Global Roundtable on Strengthening Asylum Systems and Responsibility Sharing, scheduled for 24–26 November 2026 in The Hague, Netherlands. We also deliberated on the emerging humanitarian and security situation in Moyale following renewed clashes in Ethiopia, and the need for coordinated humanitarian assistance and protection of displaced populations.

Further, we explored opportunities for enhanced UK support in strengthening refugee management systems, humanitarian response and essential services in refugee-hosting communities, particularly during the implementation of the Shirika Plan. Kenya remains committed to advancing this longstanding partnership through shared responsibility and sustainable solutions to displacement challenges.

Kenya’s longstanding partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) continues to strengthen migration governance, enhance border management and promote safe, orderly and regular migration.

Today, I held a bilateral meeting with IOM Deputy Director General Ms. SungAh Lee and expressed appreciation for IOM’s sustained support to the Government of Kenya. This includes capacity building for officers on migration issues alongside support to coordinated border operations at Moyale along the Kenya–Ethiopia border, remains instrumental in strengthening our migration management capabilities.

Advancing the National Migration Policy and supporting the National Implementation Plan for the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration were key priorities of the engagement. Continued cooperation will strengthen coordination across government, build institutional capacity and support a coherent response to emerging migration challenges.

Kenya’s leadership in global migration governance and its contribution to advancing migration policy and international cooperation were acknowledged during the engagement. We reaffirmed our commitment to deepening the Kenya–IOM partnership to advance shared priorities, support regional stability and uphold the dignity of migrants.

Elders play a vital role in strengthening community bonds, promoting peaceful coexistence and nurturing the values that underpin national unity.

Today, I received Mr. John K. Yego, who paid a courtesy call and formally invited me to his installation as the Deputy Chairman of the National Kaburo Council of Elders, scheduled for 13th November in Uasin Gishu County.

I commended the Council’s efforts in bringing communities together and sustaining peace. Through dialogue, reconciliation, and guidance to younger generations, elders remain essential partners in building trust, strengthening social cohesion, and advancing our shared aspirations for a peaceful and united Kenya.

Closer institutional collaboration translates to better services for citizens and for businesses. The partnership between the State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services and the Kenya Revenue Authority is an opportunity to work more closely together to streamline processes, improve efficiency on the eCitizen platform and improve coordination on immigration issues.

The Commissioner General of the Kenya Revenue Authority, Mr. Adan Abdulla Mohamed, paid a courtesy call on me, providing an opportunity to discuss our shared priorities and practical ways to make services more responsive, accessible, and connected.

As members of the multi-agency team, we remain committed to enhanced information sharing and coordinated action to facilitate legitimate travel and trade, support compliance, and advance national development.

Refugee-hosting areas hold immense potential to grow into vibrant economic hubs, thriving markets and sustainable municipalities. Unlocking this potential requires investment that expands opportunities for both refugees and host communities.

I joined Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen, the Governor of Turkana County Hon. Jeremiah Lomorukai, Chief Investment Officer & Head of Fragility, Africa, International Finance Corporation Ms Jumoke Jagun-Dokunmu, UNHCR Kenya Deputy Representative Robin Ellis, development partners and private sector representatives at the 6th Kakuma Kalobeyei Challenge Fund Learning and Strategy Conference in Nairobi. The conference provided an opportunity to reflect on lessons and strategies for advancing inclusive development through investment and sustained partnerships.

Translating the Shirika Plan into tangible improvements in livelihoods and access to services requires practical support for economic inclusion. Effective documentation, access to financial services, reliable infrastructure and affordable enterprise financing are essential to enabling refugees and host communities to participate more fully in the economy.

Our progress must be measured through increased employment, stronger businesses, improved services and reduced dependence on humanitarian assistance, while ensuring that vulnerable populations remain protected.