Somali refugee problem should not be our permanent burden

The debate over whether or not to repatriate the Somali refugees from the Dadaab camp is worrying to say the least. While the government has come out strongly to have the refugees sent back to Somalia, some are vehemently opposed to any such suggestion. The arguments from both sides are as strong as they are confusing.

The government seems legitimately concerned that, not only has the refugee burden become too heavy, but the Dadaab camp has become a security threat. Recent intelligence seems to indicate that the camp may have become a haven for planning and executing terrorist attacks on Kenyans. It is this that informs the strong position of the government that a solution should be found that moves the refugees from Kenyan soil in the shortest time possible.