Restoring dignity. Advancing inclusion. Transforming lives.
IDEA Refaco Kenya Foundation is a national, non-profit, non-governmental organisation established to improve the lives of persons affected by leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in Kenya. We are a membership-led organisation founded on the principle that people with lived experience are best placed to shape the solutions to the challenges they face.
We work closely with government institutions, county governments, health facilities, organisations of persons with disabilities, academic institutions, civil society, faith-based organisations, development partners and local communities. Our work aligns with Kenya's national health and disability policies, the WHO Global Leprosy Strategy, the Sustainable Development Goals and the principle of "Leave No One Behind."
Our story
For decades, thousands of Kenyans affected by leprosy lived in silence. Many were forced to leave their homes because of fear and discrimination. Others lost employment, educational opportunities and family relationships. Stigma often became a greater burden than the disease itself.
Recognising that these challenges required leadership from within affected communities, a group of committed advocates came together in 2007 to establish IDEA Refaco Kenya Foundation. Today the organisation works across healthcare, disability inclusion, education, livelihoods, research, advocacy, youth empowerment, women's empowerment and community development.
A just, inclusive and equitable society where persons affected by leprosy live free from stigma and discrimination, enjoy equal opportunities and realise their full potential.
To improve the quality of life of persons affected by leprosy through healthcare, human rights advocacy, disability inclusion, education, sustainable livelihoods, research, community empowerment and strategic partnerships.
Persons affected by leprosy are involved in every aspect of planning, implementation, decision-making, monitoring and evaluation. Meaningful participation leads to more effective, sustainable and inclusive solutions.
Our core values
Human Dignity
We recognise and uphold the inherent worth and rights of every individual.
Integrity
Transparency, accountability, ethical leadership and responsible stewardship of resources.
Inclusion
Equal participation and opportunities regardless of disability, gender, age or socioeconomic status.
Compassion
We serve with empathy, respect and a deep commitment to improving lives.
Equity
We strive to reduce inequalities and ensure fair access to services and opportunities.
Innovation
We embrace creativity, research and technology to develop sustainable solutions.
Collaboration
Lasting change comes through strong partnerships and shared responsibility.
Excellence
We pursue the highest standards of professionalism, quality and continuous improvement.
The challenge we are addressing
Leprosy is one of the world's oldest diseases, yet it remains a significant public health and human rights challenge. Although completely curable, many people continue to experience delayed diagnosis, preventable disabilities, stigma, discrimination, unemployment and social exclusion. These challenges demand a holistic response that joins health services with social protection, economic empowerment, education and advocacy.
Who we serve
- Persons affected by leprosy and persons with disabilities resulting from leprosy
- Children from leprosy-affected families
- Women and girls facing social and economic exclusion
- Youth seeking skills development and employment
- Caregivers and family members
- Communities affected by neglected tropical diseases
- Healthcare workers and community health promoters
Where we work
We work nationally, with a particular focus on counties where leprosy remains endemic. See our regional presence.
Together, we can build a future without stigma
Whether you are an individual, company, donor, researcher or volunteer, your support helps people affected by leprosy live healthy, productive and dignified lives.