By Mumo Judah | June 21, 2026
MOMBASA, KENYA — Mombasa has hosted World Refugee Day celebrations for the first time, bringing together refugees, human rights organizations, community leaders and advocates in a renewed call for inclusion, protection and support for displaced populations.
The event, held at Swahilipot Hub Foundation and organized by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) together with partner organizations, was marked under this year’s global theme, “Solidarity with Refugees: Until Everyone is Safe.”
The commemoration sought to recognize the resilience and courage of millions of people forced to flee conflict, persecution and instability, while promoting greater understanding and support for refugees living in Kenya.
The gathering attracted members of refugee communities living in the Coast region, civil society organizations, human rights defenders and local leaders who engaged in discussions on refugee protection, peaceful coexistence and the right to seek asylum.
Participants also highlighted the positive role refugees continue to play in host communities through entrepreneurship, skills development and cultural exchange.
One of the most moving moments during the event came when refugees shared personal testimonies about their journeys and experiences of displacement.
Speaking during the commemoration, one refugee representative described the hardships faced by many people forced to leave their homes in search of safety.
“We embark on perilous journeys, risking our lives in search of safety and dignity. Today, I stand as a son of Africa, forced to be a refugee in my own continent. Solidarity means recognizing our shared humanity and choosing to act with love,” he said.
Organizers noted that holding the event in Mombasa represents an important step in expanding conversations on refugee rights beyond traditional refugee-hosting regions and into urban centers where increasing numbers of displaced persons are rebuilding their lives.
They emphasized that refugees are not only beneficiaries of humanitarian assistance but also active contributors to local economies and social development.
The celebrations coincided with the global observance of World Refugee Day, an annual United Nations event dedicated to raising awareness about the plight of refugees and reaffirming international commitments to their protection.
This year’s theme underscores the importance of collective responsibility and global cooperation in addressing the growing displacement crisis affecting millions of people worldwide.
Kenya remains one of Africa’s leading refugee-hosting nations, accommodating hundreds of thousands of refugees and asylum seekers, mainly from neighboring countries affected by conflict and political instability.
While many continue to reside in the Dadaab and Kakuma refugee camps, increasing numbers have settled in urban centers such as Nairobi, Mombasa and other towns across the country.
Human rights organizations attending the event commended Kenya’s efforts toward refugee integration and called for continued implementation of policies that promote education, employment opportunities and self-reliance among displaced populations.
Ahead of the celebrations, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of refugees and asylum seekers, urging Kenyans to embrace compassion, inclusion and solidarity.
The Mombasa commemoration concluded with a renewed call for collaboration among government institutions, civil society organizations and local communities to ensure refugees are protected and empowered as they rebuild their lives.
Participants stressed that refugee issues extend beyond humanitarian concerns and are closely linked to human rights, social cohesion and sustainable development, calling for continued efforts to ensure that no one is left behind.
