KALOBEYEI. In a proactive move to foster unity ahead of World Refugee Day, key stakeholders converged in Kalobeyei Village 1, Turkana West Constituency, for a high-level peace dialogue aimed at cementing social cohesion and harmony between refugee and host communities.
The strategic gathering brought together representatives from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the Turkana County Government, the Kenya Police Service, local Kalobeyei leaders, and residents from both communities.
Held under the banner of this year’s upcoming World Refugee Day theme, “Until Everyone Is Safe,” the forum provided an open platform for participants to candidly air their perspectives, address emerging local security concerns, and map out practical paths toward deeper mutual understanding.
UNHCR representative Damaris Lokoel opened the floor by stressing that inclusive engagement is the bedrock of any lasting peace initiative.
“Peaceful coexistence is the foundation for protection and dignity,” Lokoel noted. “When refugee and host communities come together to listen and understand one another, they create stronger and safer communities for everyone.”
On security, the area OCS from Kakuma police station Kevin Odera representing the Kenya Police Service, urged residents to look at safety as a collaborative effort rather than a purely administrative duty.
“Security is a shared responsibility,” OCS Odera reiterated. “By fostering trust and open communication among communities, we can build a safer environment for all.”
Community elders and leaders from both sides echoed the sentiment, welcoming the structured talks. They highlighted that regular, face-to-face dialogues are essential for nipping everyday misunderstandings in the bud before they can escalate into larger conflicts.
The dialogue comes at a crucial time as the global community prepares to mark World Refugee Day on June 20. Organizers concluded the event by stating that the day’s raw and productive discussions proved that sustainable peace is never passive it begins with active dialogue and collective responsibility to ensure no one is left behind.
