How JRS Responds in Kenya

JRS Kenya provides integrated services that address both immediate needs and long-term opportunity for refugees and host communities.

Basic Services

• Education support
• Livelihoods training and economic inclusion
• Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS)
• Protection for gender-based violence (GBV) survivors

Specialized Programs

• Inclusive education for children with neurodevelopment challenges
• Online Associate and Bachelor’s degree programs through Southern New Hampshire University
• Master’s degree scholarships
• Safe spaces for women and girls who are survivors of gender-based violence
• Gender-responsive secondary education programs

Today’s Challenges

1. Growing refugee population

Kenya continues to receive refugees displaced by conflict and climate-related crises, increasing pressure on existing services and infrastructure.

2. Declining funding

Despite rising needs, funding has decreased over time, threatening the ability to sustain essential programs.

3. Barriers to education and opportunity

Many refugees lack access to secondary education, higher education, and the tools needed to participate in the digital economy.

Critical Needs and Impact of Funding Cuts

Livelihood and Job Training

Approximately 300,000 youth and adults in Kakuma and Nairobi need vocational training, entrepreneurship support, and market access to achieve economic inclusion.

Specialized Mental Health Services

More than 50,000 individuals require consistent access to trained mental health professionals, particularly trauma survivors and GBV survivors.

Digital Infrastructure and Access

Around 100,000 refugee learners need access to computers, internet connectivity, and digital literacy training to participate in education and employment opportunities.

Secondary Education Access (Especially for Girls)

Only about 35% of refugee youth can access secondary education, with even lower rates for girls. Expanding gender-responsive education programs remains a critical priority.

Refugee and Community Leadership

JRS Kenya emphasizes the role of refugees as leaders and contributors within their communities.

• Refugees serve as teachers, mentors, and community mobilizers
• Programs support innovation, leadership, and advocacy within refugee communities
• Education and mental health services are recognized as essential to long-term stability and dignity

Refugees are not passive recipients of aid—they are active participants shaping their futures and strengthening the communities around them.

Localizing Aid and Building Resilience

JRS Kenya prioritizes localization by employing staff from refugee and host communities and engaging directly with community-led organizations. Programs are designed through participatory needs assessments and ongoing consultation with refugees themselves.

This approach ensures that services are responsive, culturally relevant, and sustainable over time. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Stories of Impact

Nawal’s Story

Nawal, a refugee in Kakuma, pursued a degree in public health through the JRS Pathfinder Program after witnessing the impact of limited access to medical care in her community.

After returning to the camp, she launched a mentorship initiative to support young people navigating education and career pathways, helping them access scholarships, training, and opportunities.

“Too many young people here believe that success is only for the connected. I want to change that.”

Her work now reaches schools across Kakuma, empowering youth to stay in school and pursue their goals.

“To my fellow youths in refugee camps: Never give up. Life is hard now, but your dreams still matter. You are stronger than you think.”

This story highlights the power of education and mentorship in transforming lives and building stronger communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does JRS help refugees in Kenya?

JRS provides education, mental health support, livelihoods training, and protection services, with a strong focus on inclusive and higher education opportunities.

Why are refugees in Kenya for so long?

Many refugees experience protracted displacement due to ongoing conflict and limited resettlement opportunities.

What makes JRS Kenya unique?

JRS Kenya is a leader in inclusive education, higher education access, and programs that support refugees with disabilities and survivors of gender-based violence.

Where does JRS operate in Kenya?

JRS operates in Nairobi and Kakuma Refugee Camp, providing both urban and camp-based support.