In June 2024, LVCT Health conducted in-depth interviews with two disability organisations: Kisumu Action Disability Development Network (KADDNET) in Kisumu and the Gifted Community Centre (GCC) in Nairobi.  

This effort marks a key phase in LVCT Health’s transition to support other organisations. The interviews aimed to gather insights into the experiences and successes of these organisations over the past four years, during which they received subgrants. 

Funded by the Stephen Lewis Foundation, the project focuses on strengthening organizational systems and building the capacity to advocate for disability issues. Each organization was also funded to start income-generating activities to ensure sustainability. 

While many activities have been accomplished under the grant, ongoing support from counties and their constituents is crucial, especially given the impact of the political and economic environment on their success. 

The interviews included perspectives from directors, staff, and beneficiaries. Through the project, over 500 adolescents and young people received vital sexual and reproductive health information, 200 were debriefed on mental health, and more than 150 accessed gender-based violence services. 

“The project has been a lifeline, opening doors at the county level and offering services and support that were previously inaccessible to us,” said Bela from KADDNET. 

Looking ahead, LVCT Health plans to continue partnering with and building the capacity of local community-based organizations to reduce new HIV infections and decrease mortality from non-communicable diseases. These partnerships have helped reach underserved populations over the years.