The Commonwealth Foundation is an intergovernmental organisation established by Heads of Government in support of the belief that the Commonwealth is as much an association of peoples as it is of governments. It is the Commonwealth agency for civil society; a unique, stand-alone organisation established by, funded by, and reporting to governments

Supported by the Commonwealth Foundation, USK is implementing project whose goal is contribute to the realisation of a healthcare economy serving health claims for all people in Nairobi County. This project responds to the inequalities and inequities experienced by People Living and Working on the Streets (PLAWS) of Nairobi when trying to access healthcare services. The project anticipates increased voice and concerns of local communities in healthcare planning and financing, improved policy, legal and practice environment as well progressively inclusive healthcare programming, planning and financing. We anticipate to improve the health security of 1000 Persons Living and Working in the Streets of Nairobi, by ensuring they access relevant healthcare information and knowledge that facilitates effective and objective interaction with policy makers while able to influence behaviour and attitude change amongst healthcare service providers and their peers.

Redrawing the health services map in Nairobi

Our partnership with the Commonwealth Foundation is aimed at rewriting the healthcare narrative in Nairobi. We are undertaking a research to understand the space of street connected communities in the service framework of the county, which we hope will inform policy and practice in the country. Our research seeks to underscore the importance of human rights’ attitudes and communication in this sector, where on average most Kenyans spent 30% of their income on out-of-pocket medical services. It should be remembered that 98% of the street connected communities have no luxury of income, if any.