CRS History in Kenya

A former British colony, Kenya now serves as the regional hub for trade and finance in East Africa. Even as the economy expands, many Kenyans face food shortages, low incomes and unemployment.

To help address these problems, Catholic Relief Services has been working in Kenya since 1965. Initially, activities focused on emergency relief, helping communities survive droughts and food shortages. CRS Kenya later added maternal and child health programs to reduce high infant mortality rates.

Over time, the agency's focus has shifted from direct relief and food distribution to comprehensive development programming that works through partners to strengthen communities. CRS Kenya programs support people living with HIV and children orphaned by AIDS. Current programs also include community-based efforts to increase household incomes, improve family health and sanitation, enhance agriculture and increase access to quality education.