On January 15th there was an attack including gunfire and explosions on a hotel and office complex known as #14 Riverside in Nairobi. The terrorist group Al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility.  

While all RefugePoint staff have been accounted for and are safe, we send our deepest condolences to those who have lost loved ones in this tragic and terrible event. And we express our thanks to those who have reached out with concern and support.

The attack will certainly have ongoing implications for Kenyans, refugees, and RefugePoint’s staff in Nairobi. As always, we appreciate the unwavering dedication of our staff, who often serve refugees in complex and difficult situations.

Historically, in the aftermath of attacks like this one, refugees come under increased scrutiny as part of the security response. Additionally, when Al-Shabaab, a terror group operating out of Somalia, claims responsibility, it puts Somali refugees under the spotlight and exposes them to increased protection risks. RefugePoint will continue to do all that it can to serve Nairobi’s at-risk refugees, as we have done since our organization’s founding in Kenya in 2005.

Our thoughts and best wishes go out to everyone impacted by this horrific violence and RefugePoint applauds the brave actions that brought a speedy resolution to this crisis.

Sincerely,

The RefugePoint Team