UoN hosts the Commemoration of World Refugee Day 2026

The University of Nairobi on June 20, 2026 hosted the national commemoration of World Refugee Day at Taifa Hall, bringing together government officials, development partners, humanitarian organizations, refugee led organizations, host communities, academia, students, and other stakeholders under the global theme, “Until Everyone Is Safe.”

The event provided an important platform for dialogue, reflection, and renewed commitment to refugee protection, inclusion, and sustainable solutions while celebrating the resilience, courage, and achievements of refugees living in Kenya and across the world.

Speaking on behalf of the University of Nairobi Vice Chancellor,  Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Human Resource and Administration , Prof. Leonida Kerubo, welcomed participants and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to advancing knowledge, inclusion, and social transformation through education, research, and community engagement.

Prof. Kerubo noted that universities play a critical role in fostering understanding, promoting evidence-based solutions to global challenges, and creating opportunities for vulnerable populations, including refugees and asylum seekers.

“Institutions of higher learning have a responsibility to provide spaces for dialogue, innovation, and collaboration that contribute to addressing complex humanitarian challenges. Through education and partnerships, we can empower individuals and communities to build a more inclusive and equitable future,” she said.

The Chief Guest, Principal Secretary for Immigration and Citizen Services, Dr. Belio Kipsang, underscored the importance of collective action and shared responsibility in responding to displacement challenges. He reaffirmed Kenya’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that refugees are not only protected but also empowered to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to society.

“Behind every displacement statistic is a human story of resilience, hope, and determination,” Dr. Kipsang said, adding that Kenya remains committed to fostering peaceful coexistence and shared prosperity between refugees and host communities through progressive initiatives such as the Shirika Plan.

The commemoration brought together key stakeholders from across the refugee response ecosystem, including Commissioner for Refugee Affairs Ms. Mercy Mwasaru, UNHCR Deputy Country Representative Ms. Robin Ellis, World Food Programme representative Mr. Felix Oketch, NGO Refugee Co-Chair Mr. Jacob Bonyo, Nairobi City County Executive Committee Member Mr. Brian Mulama, Director General of eCitizen Ambassador Isaac Ochieng, National Population Data Management Secretary Ms. Judy Kilobi, and other senior government officials, development partners, and representatives of refugee led organizations.

A key highlight of the event was the recognition of refugees as active contributors to economic and social development. Addressing participants, Refugee-Led Organization Network of Kenya (RELON Kenya) Executive Director JeanPaul Kasika called for a shift in the narrative surrounding refugees, emphasizing their role as entrepreneurs, innovators, leaders, and human rights advocates.

“It is time to change the narrative about refugees. Beyond the challenges they face, many are leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and human rights advocates who contribute to the development of society,” said Kasika.

He noted that many refugees in Kenya have established businesses, created employment opportunities, and contributed significantly to local economies despite facing challenges such as limited access to formal employment, education, healthcare services, and legal documentation.

According to Kasika, the misconception that refugees rely solely on humanitarian assistance no longer reflects reality.

“The reality is that many refugees want to work, become self-reliant, and contribute to the communities in which they live. What often hinders them is the lack of documentation and equal opportunities to participate in economic activities,” he explained.

Throughout the event, speakers emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships among governments, universities, humanitarian organizations, development agencies, refugee-led organizations, and host communities to create lasting solutions for displaced populations.

The commemoration echoed the global message of World Refugee Day 2026, which calls on governments, institutions, and communities to uphold the promise of safety, dignity, and opportunity for people forced to flee conflict, persecution, and insecurity. The theme, “Until Everyone Is Safe,” served as a reminder that refugee protection remains a shared responsibility and that sustainable inclusion is essential to enabling refugees to rebuild their lives and thrive.

As Kenya continues to champion progressive refugee policies and development oriented approaches, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to advancing selfreliance, social cohesion, and economic empowerment among refugee and host communities.

The University of Nairobi remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote inclusion, research, policy dialogue, and partnerships aimed at addressing global challenges and creating opportunities for all members of society.

As the World Refugee Day 2026 commemoration concluded, participants renewed their pledge to stand in solidarity with refugees and work collectively towards a future where every person can live in safety, dignity, and hope. Because until everyone is safe, the work is not done.