Whose 'Home'? The Repatriation of Somali Refugees in Dadaab.

Abstract

Somali refugees started to flee to Kenya first in the early 1990s, followed by another influx in 2011. Their current number in Dadaab camp where the majority is residing is estimated to be around 300,000-400,000. Citing increased insecurity due to the refugees presence Kenya has decided to repatriate Somali refugees back to Somalia, signing a tripartite agreement with UNHCR and the Somali state. This study aims to identify what are the perceptions and perspectives of the refugees towards repatriation. It also wants to explore how the refugees perceive the notion of ‘home’ in Dadaab. It also looks into the possible security implications that might be experienced in both Somalia and Kenya due to the repatriation process. To get answers to these questions the study used semi-structured interviews and observation to determine the perspectives of the informants mainly Somali refugees dwelling in Dadaab. Post-colonial theory and other related concepts are used to analyze the findings. The research findings show that there are similar negative perceptions in the refugee population towards the repatriation process to Somalia. This is strengthened by strong attachment to the place with many calling it ‘home’. On the security part, the findings indicate that there are more possible security implications in Somalia than in Kenya. However, Kenya could suffer the ripple effects.