The Special Programs Division

Welcome to the Special Programs Division of Kilifi County’s Department of Gender, Youth, and Social Services. Our division is dedicated to addressing the unique needs of vulnerable populations and ensuring that no one is left behind in our journey toward social and economic empowerment. We focus on delivering targeted interventions, support services, and initiatives that cater to those facing the greatest challenges in our communities.

Mandates and Key Initiatives
1. Social Protection and Welfare Services

Our primary mandate is to provide comprehensive social protection and welfare services to vulnerable groups, including the elderly, persons with disabilities (PWDs), orphans, and vulnerable children. We are committed to creating an inclusive society where everyone has access to the support and resources they need to live with dignity and independence.

Key Initiatives

Cash Transfer Programs

We implement cash transfer programs for the elderly, PWDs, and other vulnerable groups to help them meet their basic needs. These programs are essential for improving the quality of life and reducing poverty among the most vulnerable members of our society.
Inclusion and Accessibility

We work to ensure that all public services and facilities in Kilifi County are accessible to PWDs. This includes advocating for the removal of physical barriers, providing assistive devices, and promoting the inclusion of PWDs in all aspects of community life.
Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) Support

We provide comprehensive support for orphans and vulnerable children, including access to education, healthcare, and psychosocial services. Our goal is to create a nurturing environment that allows these children to thrive and reach their full potential.
Emergency Response and Relief

We are prepared to respond to emergencies and provide relief to those affected by disasters, conflicts, or other crises. This includes distributing food, medical supplies, and other essential items to affected populations.
2. Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Response and Prevention

The Special Programs Division plays a critical role in the county’s efforts to combat gender-based violence. We work to prevent GBV, provide support services to survivors, and promote a culture of zero tolerance towards violence.

Key Initiatives

GBV Recovery Centers

We have established GBV recovery centers across the county that offer medical care, counseling, legal assistance, and shelter to survivors. These centers serve as safe havens where survivors can receive comprehensive care and support.
Community-Based Interventions

We implement community-based interventions to prevent GBV and raise awareness about the importance of gender equality and respect for human rights. These programs involve community leaders, local organizations, and residents in efforts to challenge harmful cultural norms and practices.
Legal and Psychosocial Support

We provide legal aid and psychosocial support to GBV survivors, helping them navigate the justice system and rebuild their lives. Our services include trauma counseling, legal representation, and assistance in accessing social services.
Capacity Building for Service Providers: We train healthcare providers, law enforcement officers, and social workers to enhance their capacity to respond to GBV cases effectively and sensitively. Our training programs emphasize the importance of survivor-centered care and protection.
3. HIV/AIDS and Health Interventions

Our division is actively involved in combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic and addressing other health challenges that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. We aim to improve health outcomes through targeted interventions, education, and advocacy.

Key Initiatives

HIV/AIDS Awareness and Testing Campaigns

We conduct widespread HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns and provide free testing and counseling services. Our goal is to reduce the stigma associated with HIV, encourage testing, and promote safe practices.
Support for People Living with HIV (PLHIV)

We offer support services to PLHIV, including access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), nutritional support, and psychosocial counseling. Our programs are designed to improve the quality of life and ensure that PLHIV can live healthy and fulfilling lives.
Health Education and Outreach

We engage in health education and outreach activities that target high-risk populations, such as adolescents, young women, and PWDs. Our programs focus on sexual and reproductive health, prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and general wellness.
Collaboration with Health Partners

We work closely with health partners, including local clinics, NGOs, and international organizations, to expand the reach and impact of our health interventions. These partnerships enable us to deliver comprehensive and integrated health services to those in need.
4. Economic Empowerment for Marginalized Groups

Economic empowerment is at the heart of our work. We focus on providing marginalized groups, including women, youth, and PWDs, with the skills, resources, and opportunities they need to achieve financial independence and contribute to the economic development of Kilifi County.

Key Initiatives

Vocational Training and Skills Development

We offer vocational training programs that equip participants with practical skills in areas such as tailoring, carpentry, and digital literacy. These programs are tailored to meet the needs of marginalized groups, helping them to secure employment or start their own businesses.
Microfinance and Small Business Support

We provide microfinance services and business development support to women, youth, and PWDs. Our initiatives include access to small loans, business mentorship, and financial literacy training, enabling participants to start and grow successful enterprises.
Market Access and Trade Facilitation

We facilitate access to markets for products made by marginalized groups, helping them to increase their income and improve their livelihoods. This includes organizing trade fairs, creating online marketplaces, and linking producers with buyers.
Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hubs

We have established entrepreneurship and innovation hubs where young people and PWDs can develop their business ideas, receive mentorship, and access resources. These hubs serve as incubators for new businesses and a platform for networking and collaboration.
5. Advocacy and Policy Development

Our division is committed to advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations and influencing policy development to ensure that their needs are addressed. We work to create an enabling environment where every individual can thrive.

Key Initiatives

Policy Advocacy

We engage in advocacy efforts to influence the development and implementation of policies that promote the rights and well-being of vulnerable groups. This includes advocating for stronger laws and policies on GBV, social protection, and disability rights.
Public Awareness Campaigns

We run public awareness campaigns to educate the community about the rights of vulnerable groups and the importance of social inclusion. These campaigns aim to challenge stereotypes, reduce discrimination, and promote positive social change.
Stakeholder Engagement

We actively engage with stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and community leaders, to build consensus around key issues affecting vulnerable populations. Our collaborative approach ensures that our advocacy efforts are effective and sustainable.
Research and Data Collection

We conduct research and collect data on issues affecting vulnerable populations to inform our advocacy and policy development efforts. This evidence-based approach allows us to address the root causes of social challenges and develop targeted solutions.
Join Us in Making a Difference

At the Special Programs Division, we are dedicated to creating a more inclusive and equitable Kilifi County. By addressing the unique needs of vulnerable populations and advocating for their rights, we are building a community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We invite you to join us in our efforts to empower those who need it most and make a lasting impact in our society.