Sunday, August 14, 2011
The Kenyan government is increasingly adamant that the flow of Somalia refugees – at around 1,500 per day – is unsustainable and wants the international community to address the humanitarian crisis within Somalia boundaries. (Read: US lauds Kenya move to host Somali refugees)
This is believed to be the reason as to why the new extension camp for Somalia refugees – known as Ifo 2 – has remained closed despite mixed reactions from the government over its accessibility.
Aid agencies say that the humanitarian situation in Somalia is ridiculous as that the existing facilities cannot cope with the overwhelming demand.
However, the Kenyan government is under pressure from a number of MPs, particularly those representing northern constituencies to disallow the development of the new permanent structure.
They are also concerned that the amenities available at Ifo 2, including schools, clinics and housing schemes are well equipped compared to those occupied by local residents.
However, the UNHCR states that Ifo 2 “is open,” and aid agencies have been asked to “move in.”
‘No go’ zone
The problem facing the government is that the international community appears unwilling to act on the humanitarian crisis within the Somalia borders.