Who we are
A Kenyan human rights educators and defenders organisation, working alongside women and youth to build a just, inclusive society from the ground up.
Rights live in the choices people are able to make.
Safe Steps Foundation Kenya was founded in 2019 and formally registered in 2023. We are a human rights educators and defenders organisation working alongside women and youth to help communities know, claim, and defend their rights.
We combine civic and human rights education, grassroots advocacy, and community empowerment to build informed, empowered, and resilient communities capable of driving their own transformation. We believe lasting change is built from the ground up.
Vision
To build a democratic, peaceful, and inclusive society where all people enjoy equal rights.
Mission
To protect human rights and promote gender equality and inclusive governance by empowering resilient communities through advocacy, strategic partnerships, and community-driven initiatives.
Four practices that distinguish our work.
Grassroots engagement
We begin and remain in the communities we serve, never imposing solutions from the outside.
Civic and rights education
We equip citizens with knowledge of their rights, the law, and the institutions that affect their lives.
Advocacy and dialogue
We bring communities, duty bearers, and policymakers into the same conversation.
Community empowerment
We build the confidence and capacity for communities to lead their own change.
Our six thematic pillars
Promote Gender Equality & Inclusive Communities
Protect Democracy, Justice & Human Rights
Enhance Good Governance & Meaningful Public Participation
Advance Economic Empowerment & Sustainable Development
Prevent & Respond to Gender-Based Violence
Empower Youth & Women in Leadership & Civic Engagement
Six values guide every decision we make.
Respect
We recognise the inherent worth, dignity, and rights of all people regardless of background.
Leadership
We create social change through growth at personal, communal, national, and international levels.
Integrity
It takes boldness and courage to stand by your principles, even when it is difficult.
Collaboration
We value diverse ideas and learn from partners and the communities we serve.
Innovation
We adopt new strategies to solve new and evolving challenges.
Non-Discrimination
Everyone is respected and given equal opportunities, without exception.
The people behind the work
Debra C. Towett
Executive DirectorLeads the organisation and its overall direction.
Lydia Chepngetich
Programmes OfficerRuns our programmes on the ground.
Neria Nyanjama
Communications OfficerShares our story and manages communications.
Clement Maiko
AdvisorProvides strategic guidance and advice.
Florence Sugut
AdvisorProvides strategic guidance and advice.
Human rights are the foundation of sustainable peace and development.
Everything we do is anchored in this conviction. If it aligns with yours, we want to hear from you.