Kenya Launches Dedicated Helpline for Vulnerable Refugees Including Disabled and LGBTI Communities
Nairobi, 26 March 2026
UNHCR Kenya has established a specialised helpline (*1517) and expanded support programmes for refugees with specific needs, including disabled individuals, elderly persons, and LGBTI community members. The initiative addresses heightened risks of abuse and exploitation faced by these vulnerable groups in refugee settings. Through partnerships with organisations like HIAS, NGLHRC, and GALCK+, the programme provides psychosocial support, financial assistance, and assistive devices on a case-by-case basis. A notable component includes the 70+ Initiative, offering urban cash transfers for elderly refugees aged 70 and above living in Nairobi and Mombasa. This comprehensive approach ensures equitable access to protection services, recognising that vulnerable refugees face particular challenges that limit their access to essential services and expose them to greater security risks.
How to Access Support Services
Refugees requiring immediate assistance can contact the UNHCR helpline by dialling *1517 [1]. This dedicated telephone service operates as the primary gateway for individuals seeking support, particularly those facing heightened vulnerabilities. The helpline connects callers directly to UNHCR Kenya’s assistance network, which coordinates with multiple partner organisations to deliver comprehensive services tailored to specific needs [1].
Eligibility and Target Groups
The programme specifically targets persons with disabilities, older persons, and members of the LGBTI community [1]. These groups are recognised as particularly affected by difficult living conditions that heighten their susceptibility to abuse and exploitation whilst limiting their access to services, thereby exposing them to heightened risks [1]. The expanded assistance acknowledges that these vulnerable populations require specialised support beyond standard refugee services to ensure their protection and wellbeing.
Partner Organisations and Service Locations
UNHCR Kenya collaborates with several key organisations to deliver services across multiple locations. HIAS operates four strategically positioned offices: the Mimosa office on Mbaruk Road (Tel: 0798531053), an Eastleigh office at Juja Road Estate House no 59 (Tel: 0773551853), a Kayole office at Nasra Garden Estate next to Bee Centre (Tel: 0700124857), and a Kawangware office off Naivasha road near Skymatt Supermarket (Tel: 0700124857) [1]. Through these partnerships, UNHCR provides specialised services including psychosocial support, counselling, financial assistance, and assistive devices on a case-by-case basis [1].
70+ Initiative Cash Transfer Programme
The 70+ Initiative represents a targeted urban cash transfer programme designed specifically for older refugees [1]. Individuals aged 70 years or over who are currently living and registered in Nairobi or Mombasa are eligible to participate [1]. Potential beneficiaries can contact UNHCR through the helpline on 1517 or send an email to the designated address [1]. Importantly, the programme allows participants to register a caregiver or family member to provide support, which should be mentioned when contacting UNHCR [1].
LGBTI Community Support Services
Three organisations provide specialised support for LGBTI refugees in Kenya. HOYMAS Kenya, a community-based organisation in Nairobi (Tel: 0794590402), focuses on health options for young men while providing human rights promotion, access to safe spaces and healthcare services, organisational development, community empowerment, and security training to LGBTIQ+ individuals [1]. The National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (NGLHRC), contactable at 020 4400525, operates as an independent human rights institution working for legal and policy reforms towards equality and full inclusion of sexual and gender minorities in Kenya [1]. The Gay and Lesbian Coalition of Kenya (GALCK+) serves as an umbrella organisation advocating for LGBTQI+ rights, providing counselling and legal aid whilst raising awareness through education, advocacy campaigns, and lobbying for law reform and anti-discrimination policies [1].