OUR PURPOSE

Mission & Vision

Our mission defines why we exist, our vision shows where we are going, and our values guide how we get there.

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Why we exist

Our mission is the reason we wake up every morning and the north star that guides every decision we make.

To translate rigorous evidence into actionable solutions that strengthen health systems, empower communities, and shape policy in Kenya.

What we do

We conduct and synthesise research that addresses real‑world health challenges. We work with communities, practitioners, and policymakers to ensure that evidence is not only generated but also used.

  • Commission and synthesise research on priority health issues
  • Translate findings into actionable recommendations and tools
  • Support implementation and scale‑up of evidence‑based interventions

How we do it

We build capacity for evidence‑informed decision‑making and foster a culture of learning and accountability. We advocate for policies that are grounded in community realities and scientific rigour.

  • Training and mentorship for researchers and practitioners
  • Participatory approaches that centre community voices
  • Strategic partnerships with government, academia, and civil society

What we aspire to

Our vision is the future we are working towards — a Kenya where evidence drives health and well‑being for all.

A Kenya where every community benefits from evidence‑based health policies, innovations, and services that are co‑created and locally owned.

Health equity

Health equity for all, regardless of geography, income, or social status. No one is left behind.

Responsive research

Research that is driven by community needs and priorities, not by external agendas.

Thriving ecosystem

A vibrant ecosystem where evidence‑driven practice and policy are the norm, not the exception.

What guides us

Our values are the principles that shape our culture, our decisions, and our relationships.

Integrity

We are honest, transparent, and accountable in all our actions. We do what we say, and we own our mistakes.

Community

We centre communities in every decision and action. We listen, we learn, and we act in partnership.

Excellence

We pursue the highest standards in research, practice, and ethics. We never settle for "good enough."

Equity

We work to reduce health and social disparities. We champion the voices of the marginalised and underserved.

Collaboration

We believe in the power of partnerships. We actively seek and nurture relationships across sectors and disciplines.

Innovation

We embrace creativity and bold thinking to solve complex problems. We learn from failure and adapt quickly.

Our strategic focus areas

To achieve our mission and vision, we focus on four strategic goals that guide our work and resource allocation.

1. Advance research translation

Strengthen the evidence‑to‑action pipeline through synthesis, dissemination, and capacity building. Ensure that research findings are accessible, understandable, and usable by decision‑makers.

2. Foster community‑centred innovation

Co‑design and test innovative solutions with communities, using implementation science to learn what works, for whom, and under what conditions.

3. Influence policy and practice

Engage policymakers and practitioners to ensure that evidence shapes national and county health strategies, budgets, and programmes.

4. Build lasting capacity

Invest in training, mentorship, and professional development for researchers, practitioners, and community leaders to create a self‑sustaining ecosystem of evidence‑driven practice.

View our strategic plan

How we turn mission into action

Our mission is not just a statement — it is a daily practice. We achieve it through a systematic and participatory approach.

🔍 Identify gaps
🤝 Co‑design solutions
⚙️ Implement & test
📊 Learn & adapt
📈 Scale & sustain

This iterative cycle ensures that our work remains relevant, responsive, and rooted in the realities of the communities we serve.

Help us achieve our mission

Our mission is ambitious, and we cannot do it alone. Whether you are a researcher, a community leader, a policymaker, or a donor — your support makes a difference.