Influence of refugees’ socio-economic security on the livelihoods of host community in Kakuma, Turkana west sub county, Turkana county, Kenya

Abstract

The sustained presence of refugees has significant implications for host communities, particularly in regions where access to socio-economic services is limited. This study examines the influence of refugees’ access to employment, education, healthcare, and housing on the livelihoods of the host community in Kakuma, Turkana County, Kenya. It explores how refugee employment activities impact job opportunities and market dynamics, assesses the effects of shared education facilities and enrollment trends on service access, analyzes the strain on healthcare services due to congestion and resource allocation, and evaluates the pressure on land use, water, sanitation, and environmental sustainability linked to refugee shelter and settlement. The study is grounded in the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework, which emphasizes the interplay between access to assets, external shocks, and livelihood outcomes. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted, targeting host community members residing in Kakuma and Kalobeyei. Stratified and simple random sampling techniques were used to select a representative sample of 418 households. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and key informant interviews, validated by expert reviews, and tested for reliability using Cronbach’s alpha. Ethical standards were observed through informed consent, voluntary participation, and confidentiality assurances. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics via SPSS, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Findings reveal that refugee employment enhances market vibrancy (86%) and labor demand (77%) but also intensifies job competition (73%) and wage concerns (56%). Shared educational spaces promote access but contribute to overcrowding (85%) and disparities in support (61%). Refugee presence increases pressure on healthcare, with respondents citing overstretched health workers (80%) and longer waits times (72%). Housing settlements affect land availability (73%), water access (74%), and contribute to environmental degradation (72%). The study recommends inclusive planning, balanced resource allocation, community participation in service delivery, and long-term investment in infrastructure. Further research is suggested on the economic multiplier effects of refugee integration and comparative studies across different refugee-hosting counties in Kenya.