The Re:BUiLD Approach

Launched by the International Rescue Committee and the IKEA Foundation, Re:BUiLD is one of the largest private investments (€30 Million) for urban refugee livelihoods in East Africa. Our target was to reach 20,000 urban refugees and vulnerable host community members — including women, men, and youth. We exceeded this goal, reaching 21,171 clients and achieving 106% of our goal.

Over five years of implementation, the Re:BUiLD program has delivered its impact through three core pillars:

 

 

Our Approach

 

1

Livelihood Services   

Re:BUiLD has supported refugees and host community members to access decent work by building skills aligned with labour market demand and by supporting the creation and growth of small businesses—contributing directly to improved economic self-reliance.

2

Evidence and Learning

The program generated rigorous evidence through randomized controlled trials, pilots, and robust monitoring and learning systems, strengthening understanding of what works to improve urban refugee livelihoods.

3

Influence and Adoption

Re:BUiLD advanced a bold influencing agenda that shaped policies, practices, and investment decisions at national, regional, and global levels—helping embed refugee-inclusive approaches within urban systems.