Garissa Speaker Champions Refugee-Host Partnerships at Devolution Conference

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By Irene 
 Garissa County Assembly Speaker has called for stronger partnerships to drive inclusive development that benefits both refugees and host communities.

Speaking during a side event at the ongoing Devolution Conference 2025 in Homa Bay, the Speaker noted that Garissa has, for decades, hosted one of Kenya’s largest refugee populations — a reality that has enriched the county’s diversity but also placed significant strain on its environment, infrastructure, and public services.

He reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to locally-led solutions and deeper collaboration between county, national, and international actors. Citing the recently launched Shirika Plan, he described it as a “vital shift from aid dependency to a development-driven model” and pledged to embed it in the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP).
In a landmark move towards inclusivity, the Speaker revealed that the County Assembly had amended its Standing Orders to allow refugees to petition the Assembly directly — a first in the county’s history.

“Our guiding principles remain human rights, social justice, and inclusion. Development must grant both refugees and hosts equal access to services, opportunities, and dignity,” he said, expressing confidence that continuous dialogue and cooperation would strengthen policies, improve coordination, and ensure no community in Garissa is left behind.





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