Empowering Refugees,
Restoring Dignity
RESECO is an LGBTQI refugee-led community organisation empowering refugees and asylum-seekers through livelihood programmes, advocacy, and community development.
The Context We Work In
Refugee Rights and Inclusion in Kenya
Kenya hosts more than 830,000 refugees and asylum seekers who have fled neighboring countries struggling with conflict, including Rwanda, Congo, Uganda, Burundi, Somalia, and South Sudan.
Refugees and asylum seekers in Kenya are granted legal protections under national and international law. However, in reality it is often difficult for displaced people to access their full rights. Protracted displacement, limited access to services, and growing tensions with host communities pose significant challenges for refugees in Kenya. The recent integration plan aims to address these challenges by integrating refugees with their host communities, yet it has left queer communities out.
Who We Are
A Community Built by Refugees,
for Refugees
Refugee Spectrum Empowerment Community (RESECO) is an LGBTQI refugee-led community based organisation founded in April 2020. We started as an emergency shelter for LGBTQI+ refugees and asylum-seekers — a safe haven to feel safe and get a meal.
Today we run sustainable livelihood programmes, advocacy initiatives, and community development projects that create lasting change for refugees and vulnerable communities across the region.
Our Foundation
What Drives Us
Our Vision
To build/create a safe & free operating space for refugees, well organized, informed, healthy and economically independent for refugees and LGBTQI+ community
Our Mission
To advance youth-led, community-driven innovation,To enhance the quality of life for all refugees,women and girls empowerment and Queer refugees through sustainable livelihood projects, positive social change, information, advocacy, and services.
What We Do
Our Work
From livelihood projects to advocacy, we create lasting change in the communities we serve.
Catering
Food preparation and catering work that creates practical income opportunities.
Learn more →
Tailoring
Tailoring skills and production work that help community members build independence.
Learn more →
Protecting the Climate and Conservation
Community-led work that protects the climate, conserves natural resources, and supports a healthier future.
Learn more →
Farming
Farming activities that support food security, practical skills, and sustainable livelihoods.
Learn more →With Thanks
Our Sponsors & Partners
We are grateful to the sponsors and partners who help us create safer, more inclusive communities for refugees and asylum seekers.
From the Blog