Inclusive Public Spaces in Kakuma and Dadaab

By: Mapenzi Kaposho Akso | Columnist | WBN NEWS Africa | July 25, 2026

Public spaces are more than parks, markets, and gathering areas, they are the heartbeat of thriving communities. In Kenya's refugee-hosting municipalities of Kakuma and Dadaab Hagadera, UN Habitat is demonstrating how thoughtful urban planning can strengthen resilience, improve livelihoods, and foster lasting social cohesion between refugees and host communities.

Through the Flexible Mechanism for Migration and Forced Displacement in Sub-Saharan Africa, UN Habitat is implementing activities under Objective 3 to improve urban infrastructure and create greener, safer, and more accessible public spaces. The initiative recognizes that Kakuma and Dadaab have transformed over more than three decades into vibrant municipalities where inclusive planning is essential to meet the needs of growing populations.

By investing in shared public spaces, the project aims to improve everyday life for everyone. Markets, parks, and community gathering areas provide opportunities for people from different backgrounds to meet, interact, and build trust. These spaces also encourage local business activities, support livelihoods, and create environments where communities can thrive together.

Another key feature of the initiative is its commitment to evidence-based planning. UN Habitat has produced municipality factsheets that offer valuable insights into the unique characteristics and development needs of Kakuma and Dadaab Hagadera Municipality. These resources are designed to support policymakers, development partners, and local stakeholders in making informed decisions that reflect local realities and priorities.

The project represents the first in a series of updates that will document its approach, progress, and lessons learned. By combining inclusive urban planning with investments in resilient public infrastructure, UN Habitat is laying the foundation for stronger local economies and more connected communities.

As refugee-hosting municipalities continue to evolve, the importance of shared public spaces cannot be overstated. They serve not only as places for recreation and commerce but also as symbols of unity, dignity, and opportunity. Through this initiative, UN Habitat is helping create environments where refugees and host communities can build brighter futures together, proving that inclusive development remains one of the strongest pathways toward resilient and peaceful communities.

"Markets, parks, and community gathering areas provide opportunities for people from different backgrounds to meet, interact, and build trust."

"Through this initiative, UN Habitat is helping create environments where refugees and host communities can build brighter futures together."

Sources:
https://maps.unhabitat-urbanhealth.org/me/stories.html
https://lnkd.in/dfyPYRc9

Editor: Joseph James Udoh

WBN Global News Desk
📩 newsdesk@wbnn.news The advantage---

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