(NAIROBI) – The Embassy of the Republic of South Sudan in Nairobi has held high level discussions with the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) on the situation of South Sudanese refugees in Kakuma and Kalobeyei camps in Kenya. H.E. Ambassador Anthony Kon met with the UNHCR Representative in Nairobi to address humanitarian challenges affecting refugees, including reduced food rations and ongoing security concerns.
Kon briefed the UNHCR on his recent meeting with Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary, H.E. Dr Musalia Mudavadi, and called for a tripartite mechanism involving the Government of Kenya, UNHCR, the South Sudanese Embassy and refugee representatives to coordinate solutions. He highlighted the need for structured engagement to address pressing needs in the camps.
The UNHCR Representative acknowledged these concerns, noting that global donor fatigue and a sharp decline in contributions from key partners have forced the agency to reduce its budget by 40 percent and cut staffing by 80 percent.
As a result, food rationing introduced three years ago continues, with refugees prioritised according to vulnerability. A review system is available to address cases of misclassification or sudden hardship.
The UNHCR welcomed the Ambassador’s proposal for a tripartite meeting and said she would consult with the UNHCR Commissioner before issuing a formal response. She also recommended closer engagement with the UNHCR Regional Director in Nairobi to strengthen coordination on the ground.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to continued dialogue and cooperation to safeguard the safety, dignity, and welfare of South Sudanese refugees in Kakuma and Kalobeyei.
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Ambassador | H.E. Anthony Kon |
| UNHCR Representative | Nairobi Office |
| Focus | South Sudanese refugees in Kakuma and Kalobeyei |
| Issues | Reduced food rations, security, humanitarian support |
| Proposed Action | Tripartite coordination mechanism |
| UNHCR Constraints | Budget cut 40%, Staff reduced 80% |
