Will Shirika Plan work better for refugees? Or will it turn into Shirika Play?
Recently, I encountered a situation that left me questioning the fairness of job opportunities for refugees in Kakuma Refugee Camp. I applied for a job vacancy and was initially shortlisted for an interview after submitting my CV and portfolio. Everything seemed promising until I received a phone call from 'Mrs. Recruiter', the recruiter handling the process. He confirmed the interview date but then asked, "Are you a refugee?"
When I confirmed that I was, the tone changed. He apologized and informed me that the position was reserved exclusively for Kenyans, adding that my name had confused him, which led to me being shortlisted. This experience raised serious concerns about the transparency and inclusivity of the hiring process. Are refugees being fairly considered based on their skills and qualifications, or are hidden biases at play?
I believe it’s time to address these issues openly. Refugees with the right qualifications should have equal access to job opportunities, without barriers based on status or name. This isn't just my story it's a reality that many refugees face, and it must change.
Nanduri Sateesh, as the HSO of Kakuma Refugee Camp Sub Office, I urge you to step in and ensure that the Shirika Plan truly works for the benefit of both refugees and host and doesn't turn into Shirika Play.
Let’s build a fairer system for all.
#RefugeeRights #EqualOpportunities #ShirikaPlan #FairHiring #KakumaCamp #AdvocacyForChange
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency HIAS Kenya United Nations UN Women Universe Movers And Relocations United Nations Human Rights United Nations Human Rights The Danish Institute for Human Rights - International Activities United Nations Office at Geneva KALOBEYEI INITIATIVE 4 BETTER LIFE Danish Refugee Council / Dansk Flygtningehjælp Nanduri Sateesh Solidarity Initiative for Refugees (SIR)
