Participatory Approaches: Lessons from Kakuma-Kalobeyei, Turkana County, Kenya

Over the last decade, in Kakuma-Kalobeyei, northern Kenya, UN-Habitat has incorporated several participatory approaches in urban planning processes to support the creation of Kalobeyei Settlement, the regeneration of Kakuma Camps, and the development of a socio-economic corridor, amongst other efforts, in alignment to the shared goals of KISEDP, Kenya.

Throughout these experiences, practitioners and partners have recognised the importance of the design and integration of participatory approaches in elevating opportunities and recognising the key role of every participant through this process. In the last two years, regulations put in place in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in Kenya has also required practitioners and partners to adapt their methods of engagement accordingly and to put in place creative and innovative solutions regarding hybrid or in-person engagements and processes.

This report seeks to better mainstream the utilisation of participatory approaches, by recognising and considering participatory approaches and strategies utilised during past urban planning process in Kakuma-Kalobeyei, and which have evolved within UN-Habitat and partners’ programmes in the region. It also aims determine lessons learnt from previous engagements and provide key recommendations and takeaways which can inform and support practitioners for future programming in similar fields and contexts.