Migrants’ Challenges and Psycho-Social Support among Urban Refugees in Nairobi County, Kenya

Human migration has become a societal phenomenon. There is a notable increase in the prevalence of both voluntary and forced migration. The purpose of this research was to assess the challenges encountered by urban refugees and to identify the psychosocial support systems. The study was guided by Reason Action Theory and the Resilience Theory. The study utilized a mixed method with an embedded research design. The sample size was 398 respondents based on the Yamane formula. Data was collected using self-constructed questionnaires. Qualitative data were analyzed using the content thematic analysis. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied to quantitative data. The findings indicated that the most challenging aspects encountered by Refugees were the lack of freedom of movement (Mean 3.30), housing (Mean 3.04), language barriers (Mean 3.04) as well as no access to financial services (Mean 2.64). These challenges were coupled with stigmatization, humiliation, and bullying. The findings also showed that networking with family members, churches/mosques, and NGOs were among the most available and used psychosocial support systems. The study therefore recommends that Government should reconsider policies related to the matter of freedom of movement and housing. It is valuable for NGO’s, Churches/Mosques to continue playing their supportive roles of welcoming refugees, working for their dignity, and wellbeing.