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Collaborative Meeting Highlights Key Challenges and Opportunities for Refugees and Host Communities in Nairobi’s Small-Scale Business Sector

NAIROBI: September 25, 2024

Youth, Talent and Sports Sub Sector organized a meeting in collaboration with the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED).  The main objective was to disseminate findings on a research conducted to determine key challenges faced by Host communities and Refugees in running small scale businesses in Nairobi.

Wainaina Muiruri, Deputy Director Youth Affairs, opened the discussion stating, “It is important that all actors take into account the recommendations of the Research and collaborate in ensuring their implementation. This findings will also inform the development of the Refugee Integration Strategy that is currently ongoing.”
Refuge 4Johnson Akong’o, Director Licensing, reaffirmed the county’s commitment to a unified business permit initiative, which aims to simplify the regulatory process for entrepreneurs. “This initiative brings out the need for aggressive sensitization on the process of acquiring the UBP to both the Refugees and host communities” Akong’o noted.

Susan Kimani, Assistant Director Youth Affairs, emphasized the importance of collaboration with the Department of Refugee Services (DRS) to support refugees’ economic contributions. “By educating county officers about refugee rights, we can facilitate their meaningful participation in business and employment opportunities,” she added.

In attendance were Eva Wariuko, Director Security and Compliance, and Catherine Githinji, Assistant Director of Sports, along with representatives from IIED, who provided recommendations for enhancing Nairobi’s business environment and fostering economic inclusivity.

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