Kenya
In Kenya, HI is providing assistance to people living in refugee camps and host communities. The organization is also taking action to increase education and employment opportunities and political participation of people with disabilities.
A group of children play at the Dadaab refugee camp. | © B. Blondel / HI
Our actions
In Kenya, HI works in refugee camps and surrounding communities to improve the living conditions of refugees and persons with disabilities, by ensuring equal and protected access to learning opportunities, employment opportunities, civic engagement and access to services. HI works to raise awareness of discrimination and build the capacity of staff working with these populations to identify people with the most acute needs. Finally, HI equips educators to welcome students with disabilities through inclusive education training.
Areas of intervention
Latest stories
In 2022, Humanity & Inclusion launched 43 projects exclusively dedicated to inclusive education, particularly in Mali and Rwanda.
Three refugee entrepreneurs overcome Covid-19 challenges
Aziza, Omot and Khalid keep their businesses thriving after the Covid-19 crisis with financial assistance from Humanity & Inclusion and the Mastercard Foundation.
Simon supports children at the Kakuma Rehabilitation Center
Simon Njenga tells us about his day-to-day work as a pediatric rehabilitation officer at the Kakuma rehabilitation center in Kenya.
a life
Background
A former British colony, Kenya obtained independence in 1963. In 2020, Kenya ranked 143 out of the 189 countries on the Human Development Index by UNDP.
Increased circumstances of gender inequality have negatively impacted inclusive human development and economic growth of population, especially in labour markets, access to education and appropriate healthcare. The rights of people with disabilities are often times neglected, contributing to increased poverty and sub-standard living conditions.
From 2017, the conditions in arid regions of Kenya deteriorated significantly due to drought. There has also been a negative impact of floods, landslides and locusts on crops, household food and income sources throughout the country. This led to heightened food insecurity and decreased health and nutrition status at a time when political instability has also increased. Within this context, people with disabilities and others living in situations of vulnerability are at a greater risk of neglect and reduced access to services such as education and health.
In 2021, an assessment indicated worsening food security and drought in numerous counties. In September 2021, Kenya's President declared the drought a national disaster.
Number of HI staff members: 87
Date the program launched: 1992
