The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization founded in 1933. Its mandate is to help people whose lives have been disrupted by conflict, disaster, and displacement survive, recover, and regain control of their futures. It works with displaced populations, host communities, and governments to provide relief and long-term solutions.

IRC in Kenya: Key Facts

IRC began operations in Kenya in 1992.

Kenya hosts a large refugee population—over 770,000 refugees and asylum seekers.

In 2023, IRC’s programs in Kenya reached around 570,000 people in need.

Their work supports both refugees and vulnerable host communities.

Areas of Operation

IRC runs programs in multiple counties, including:

Turkana

Samburu

Lamu

West Pokot

Kajiado

Garissa

Nairobi

Program Focus

The IRC in Kenya focuses on several sectors:

Sector Activities
Health & Nutrition Provides primary health care, reproductive health services, and nutrition support, especially for children and women.
Livelihoods / Economic Well-being Helps families build income and assets to improve economic resilience.
Education Trains teachers and improves learning outcomes, especially in refugee-hosting counties like Turkana and Garissa.
Protection & Rule of Law Supports survivors of violence, offers legal aid, psychosocial support, and strengthens justice and protection systems.
Governance & Systems Strengthening Works with government, NGOs, and communities to improve policies, systems, and ensure participation of affected populations.
Emergency Response & Preparedness Responds to droughts, floods, and disease outbreaks with mobile health units, cash assistance, and hygiene support.
Key Challenges

IRC’s work in Kenya addresses major challenges such as:

Climate shocks like droughts and floods that impact food security and livelihoods.

Food insecurity and malnutrition, particularly among children.

Displacement and refugee crises, with limited services and overcrowded conditions.

Insufficient funding for humanitarian response and resilience programs.

Gender-based violence and protection risks, especially affecting women and girls.

Contact Information

Head Office Location: Nairobi, Kilimani (Chaka Road, off Arwings Kodhek), Chaka Place, 3rd Floor

Postal Address: P.O. Box 72727, Nairobi, Kenya

Phone: +254 20 2717761

Email: ircnbi@irkenya.org