The national government has been urged to intensify efforts to resettle internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by the 2007-2008 post-election violence to ensure that all receive compensation and are permanently settled.
The National IDPs Network Coordinator, Raphael Eyanai, emphasized that while the government has made notable progress in addressing the needs of displaced families, much remains to be done.
“We have seen efforts to compensate those affected by road construction and environmental conservation projects. The government is trying its best, but we need these efforts to be replicated with the IDPs,” Eyanai said in Kitale.
However, he stressed the need for greater attention to the ongoing challenges faced by IDPs, particularly those who have been waiting for nearly 18 years for a resolution. He emphasized that the government’s efforts to resettle displaced persons must remain a priority.
While Eyanai recognized the economic challenges faced by the government, he called for a balanced approach that prioritizes the well-being of displaced communities alongside economic recovery efforts.
“While the government focuses on economic growth, it must not forget the displaced families who are still dealing with the hardships of the past. They too are part of the economy, and they deserve support to rebuild their lives,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Eyanai reaffirmed the National IDPs Network’s continued support for the government’s efforts to resolve the displacement issue. However, he stressed that the time for action has come, with 2026 marking nearly two decades since the displacement crisis began.
“We have given the government enough time to resolve this issue. Now, we ask that they fulfill their promises to the displaced persons. The government must act now to ensure that these families are not left behind,” Eyanai concluded.
