Statelessness: The Makonde Community
UNHCR has a mandate to identify, reduce and prevent statelessness, as well as to protect stateless persons in Kenya
MOMBASA, Kenya, 26th August 2015 (UNHCR) – UNHCR works closely with the Government, civil society and United Nations partners in order to identify solutions for persons who may be stateless or at risk of statelessness. UNHCR Public Information Unit jointly with Protection Unit were in the coastal region to produce a video to be used for advocacy purposes to highlight the plight and rights of the stateless communities i.e. the Makonde, Pemba and Galjael. The lack of birth registration is a major challenge among the stateless community who have been in Kenya for years. Lack of birth certificates makes it difficult for stateless persons to access basic services like mobile money services, banking services and also getting jobs.
UNHCR has a mandate to identify, reduce and prevent statelessness, as well as to protect stateless persons in Kenya.
Makonde woman displaying their indigenous face tattoos Pic/UNHCR