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Why Safe Steps Foundation Kenya Exist
Empowering Communities, Advancing Equality, and Driving Sustainable Change
Founded in 2019, Safe Steps Foundation Kenya (SSF-K) was born out of a deep commitment to addressing the persistent challenges faced by marginalized communities in governance, human rights and gender equality. What started as a grassroots initiative has grown into a leading non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to promoting social & political accountability, gender equality and human rights advocacy.
Built on the resilient spirit of the communities we serve, our work is guided by the principles of equity, sustainability, innovation, and inclusion. We empower individuals through education, advocacy, and community-driven solutions to create long-term impact.
Our Main Thematic Pillars
Gender Equality and Inclusivity
At the heart of our work lies a firm commitment to advancing gender equality and addressing all forms of discrimination. We recognize that many individuals in marginalized communities—especially women, girls, persons with disabilities, and minority groups—face systemic barriers that limit their ability to participate fully in society. Our interventions are rooted in the lived realities of the people we serve, with a focus on practical, community-led solutions that shift both policy and practice.
Our Approach
We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Gender equality, for us, means ensuring that every person—regardless of gender, background, or social identity—has equal access to opportunities, resources, and protection under the law. Discrimination in any form not only harms individuals, but also weakens communities and undermines progress. Our work is grounded in four key principles: inclusion, equity, equality, and non-discrimination.
Governance, Democracy, and Human Rights
At Safe Steps Foundation Kenya, we believe that accountable governance and the protection of human rights are the foundation of a just society. Our work in this thematic area focuses on empowering citizens—especially those from marginalized and underserved communities—to participate meaningfully in democratic processes, demand accountability, and defend their rights without fear or favor.
We approach governance not as a distant concept but as a lived experience. Whether it’s about how public funds are used, how inclusive a county development plan is, or whether a woman can speak freely in a public baraza—governance touches everyday life. That’s where we come in: bridging the gap between citizens and duty bearers.
Our Focus Areas and Interventions
Promoting Good Governance through Civic Education: We carry out civic education at grassroots level to demystify governance and empower communities to understand their role in shaping public policy and holding leaders accountable.
Strengthening Public Participation: Public participation is a right—but for many, it’s still a privilege. We work to ensure that the voices of women, youth, persons with disabilities, and minority groups are not just heard but also considered in decision-making.
Defending Human Rights at the Grassroots: We stand up for the rights of individuals and communities who face systemic injustice, abuse, and neglect.
Enhancing Political Accountability: We convene forums where citizens can directly engage with elected leaders to ask questions, give feedback, and raise concerns.
Community Dialogue Forums: We organize grassroots-level forums where community members can openly discuss gender norms, power dynamics, and cultural practices that reinforce inequality.
Gender-Sensitive Livelihood and Economic Empowerment Projects: We recognize that economic dependence is a major contributor to gender-based power imbalances. Our programs equip women, widows, and survivors of gender-based violence with business skills, seed funding, and cooperative support to improve their economic resilience and independence.
Gender Rights Education and Legal Awareness: In many marginalized communities, people are unaware of their rights or how to claim them. We conduct gender rights education sessions, legal clinics, and awareness drives to ensure individuals understand laws on gender-based violence, inheritance, land rights, reproductive health, and political representation.
Women and Youth Leadership Programs: We train and mentor women and young people to take on leadership roles at community and county levels. By building their confidence and advocacy skills, we help amplify their voices in public decision-making and challenge the exclusionary systems that silence them.
Join us in our mission to create a just and equitable society. Whether you’re an individual, a business, or another organization, your support is invaluable.
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Read Our Blogs
Empowering Women and Girls: The Key to Equality and Sustainable Development
Gender equality is not just a fundamental human right but a necessary foundation for a prosperous…
Grassroots Democracy in Kenya: Strengthening Citizen Participation to Ignite System Change.
In the wake of Kenya’s June 2024 Gen Z protests, Abraham Lincoln’s timeless definition of democracy—…