UNHCR Kenya Launches Dedicated Helpline for Vulnerable Refugees
Nairobi, 11 February 2026
Refugees with disabilities, elderly individuals, and LGBTI community members in Kenya can now access specialised assistance through a new UNHCR helpline by dialling 1517.
How to Access the Service
The UNHCR helpline 1517 provides direct access to specialised support services for Kenya’s most vulnerable refugee populations [1]. Persons with specific needs include persons with disabilities, older persons and members of the LGBTI community, who face particular challenges as their difficult living conditions heighten their susceptibility to abuse and exploitation and limit their access to services [1]. The helpline operates as a central coordination point, connecting callers with partner organisations that deliver targeted assistance programmes across refugee settlements throughout the country [1].
Partner Organisations and Support Services
Through its network of partners, UNHCR provides specialised services including psychosocial support, counselling, financial assistance and assistive devices on a case-by-case basis [1]. HIAS operates multiple offices across Kenya to serve refugees, including locations in Mimosa (Mbaruk Road, Off Muchai Drive, Off Ngong Road, Tel 0798531053), Eastleigh (Juja Road Estate House no 59, Tel 0773551853), Kayole (Nasra Garden Estate, Tel 0700124857), and Kawangware (Off Naivasha road, Near Skymatt Supermarket, Tel 0700124857) [1]. For LGBTI community members, specialised support comes through organisations such as HOYMAS Kenya, which provides human rights promotion, access to safe spaces and healthcare services, security training, and empowerment programmes for MSM/MSW community members (Phone: 0794590402) [1].
Specific Programmes for Older Refugees
The 70+ Initiative represents a targeted cash transfer programme specifically designed for older refugees [1]. Individuals aged 70 years or over who are currently living and registered in Nairobi or Mombasa can contact UNHCR via the helpline on 1517 or send an email to the designated address [1]. The programme also allows for caregiver registration, with applicants able to register a caregiver or family member to provide support when contacting UNHCR [1]. This initiative recognises the particular vulnerabilities faced by elderly refugees in urban settings and provides direct financial assistance to meet their basic needs [1].
LGBTI Support Network
The helpline connects LGBTI refugees with established advocacy and support organisations across Kenya [1]. The National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (NGLHRC) operates as an independent human rights institution working for legal and policy reforms towards equality and full inclusion of sexual and gender minorities (Contact: 020 4400525) [1]. The Gay and Lesbian Coalition of Kenya (GALCK+) serves as an umbrella organisation advocating for LGBTQI+ rights, providing counselling and legal aid services whilst raising awareness through education, advocacy campaigns and lobbying for law reform and anti-discrimination policies (Contact: +254 20 2426060) [1]. These organisations work alongside UNHCR to ensure comprehensive support for one of the most marginalised refugee populations [1].