The Role of the African Union (AU) in Refugee Humanitarian Assistance: a Case Study of Kenya

Abstract

Refugees are among the most vulnerable persons in our society as they face a lot of uncertainty following displacement from their home countries. In this regard, they should be prioritized in protection and assistance interventions by humanitarian actors including the host governments. This study investigates the role of the African Union (AU) in rendering humanitarian assistance to refugees with a focus on the Kenyan jurisdiction. It encompasses a comprehensive exploration of the AU's legal, moral and political mandate, institutional frameworks, and specific initiatives aimed at humanitarian assistance in Africa. The study explores the complexities of the AU's involvement in Kenya, analyzing its interventions, coordination efforts, and collaborative strategies with local and international bodies to ensure effective humanitarian assistance. The study critically assesses a range of internal and external barriers that the AU faces in providing aid to refugees in Kenya. It adopted a qualitative case study design, gathering data through interviews and analyzing both primary and secondary sources. The respondents included government officials, aid workers, donors, host communities, and refugees. Purposive sampling was used and the data analysis involved thematic analysis of transcribed interviews and secondary data. The theory of Cosmopolitanism was employed in the research. The findings of the study include the fact that instances of political instability in Kenya significantly disrupt aid delivery, while the government’s securitization-focused approach impedes comprehensive assistance. Limited funding presents a substantial obstacle in meeting escalating humanitarian needs, with humanitarian actors demonstrating a lack of awareness and application of the Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS). Corruption, environmental stressors, and the absence of a sustainable response reflect the array of additional obstacles faced by the AU. The study recommends that the AU should strengthen diplomatic ties with Kenya, develop comprehensive contingency plans, implement capacity-building initiatives and promote the Core Humanitarian Standard. Additionally, the AU should diversify funding sources, form alliances with development organizations, and push for a larger budget allocation from the national government for refugee assistance programs. In addition, the study recommends monitoring, reporting, and whistleblower protection for the prevention of mismanagement of funds and corruption. Furthermore, resilient infrastructure and conservation initiatives by the AU in collaboration with the government of Kenya are necessary to address environmental challenges.