12th Stakeholder Meeting highlights Re:BUiLD progress in empowering refugees

December 4, 2024, Nairobi. Re:BUiLD partners engaging in discussions during the 12th Stakeholder Reference Group Meeting (SRGM). (PHOTO: Nancy Mwangi for The IRC) 

On December 4, 2024, stakeholders from diverse organizations and communities gathered at The Monarch Hotel, Kilimani in Nairobi, for the 12th Stakeholder Reference Group Meeting (SRGM). This pivotal gathering showcased progress, partnerships, and plans under the Re:BUiLD program, highlighting efforts to empower refugees and host communities in Kenya. 

Key Highlights of the Meeting 

• Program Achievements and Updates 

Claudius Maghanga from IRC shared a major milestone: Re:BUiLD has reached over 10,000 clients in Nairobi, surpassing its target. Of these, 57% are refugees, while 43% are host clients, emphasizing the program’s commitment to inclusivity. Significant grants amounting to Kshs 205 million were distributed to 3,400 clients, fueling small businesses and fostering economic resilience. 

Additionally, Re:BUiLD partners Pamoja Trust and SHOFCO presented progress in capacity-building, entrepreneurship training, and green economy initiatives. SHOFCO’s engagement with 55 savings groups (USLAs) led to an accumulation of Kshs 7.1 million in savings and disbursements of Kshs 5.3 million in loans, directly supporting vulnerable groups, including refugees and people with disabilities. 

• Policy Advocacy and Inclusion 

The Department of Refugee Services (DRS) provided updates on refugee documentation and integration efforts. Key highlights included the issuance of refugee IDs, plans for streamlining access to critical services, and discussions on Shrika Plan—a transformative initiative focused on transitioning from humanitarian support to self-reliance and integration for refugees. 

• Community Voices and Concerns 

Stakeholders raised critical issues such as domestic violence, defilement, and the need for stronger outreach to marginalized communities. They also emphasized the urgency of addressing violence against women and children, calling for actionable steps to protect vulnerable groups. 

December 4, 2024, Nairobi. Damarice Otieno from the Department of Refugee Service making her presentation during the 12th Stakeholder Reference Group Meeting (SRGM). (PHOTO: Nancy Mwangi for The IRC) 

• Collaboration and Future Directions

Equity Bank, Re:BUiLD’s financial partner in Nairobi, outlined plans to measure the impact of its loan programs on refugee businesses, while National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) applauded Re:BUiLD’s efforts in economic training and expressed eagerness to expand partnerships. The IRC Communications team encouraged stakeholders to contribute to blog posts and newsletter content, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in documenting Year 5 milestones. 

Looking Ahead: Year 5 and Beyond 

“The year 2025 will focus on documentation, monitoring, and assessing the long-term impact of Re:BUiLD” stated Boniface Odhiambo, Economic Recovery Development Coordinator at the International Rescue Committee. Stakeholders committed to amplifying their collective efforts, ensuring sustainable outcomes for refugees and host communities alike.