Now, the Kenyan government and humanitarian agencies have come up with an ambitious plan for Kakuma to evolve into a city.

In a country like Kenya, where ethnic politics can be deeply polarising, refugees might serve an unexpected function.

More than three decades after its first tents appeared in 1992, Kakuma houses 300,000 refugees. Many rely on aid to survive. Some recently clashed with police over shrinking food rations and support.

One of Africa’s most famous refugee camps could transform into a city. The Kakuma camp in a remote part of Kenya houses ...

More than three decades after its first tents appeared in 1992, Kakuma houses 300,000 refugees. Many rely on aid to survive. Some recently clashed with police over shrinking food rations and support.

More than three decades after its first tents appeared in 1992, Kakuma houses 300,000 refugees. Many rely on aid to survive. Some recently clashed with police over shrinking food rations and support.

General view part of Kakuma refugee camp in Turkana county, Kenya, Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Jackson Njehia) ...