IMLU’s work is guided by a strategic, survivor-centered approach that balances prevention and response. Operating with one goal in mind: to deliver high-quality, holistic care to survivors of torture and related human rights violations, while driving systems change through accountability and reform.
Use of Adaptive Programming
IMLU’s work is rooted in a structured implementation framework that ensures every action, from annual work plans to long-term goals, is aligned with the mission and vision. IMLU embraces adaptive programming to remain responsive to Kenya’s evolving contextual landscape, particularly in addressing torture and related violations.
Integrated Programming
IMLU believes in healing the whole person and provides medical, psychological, and legal support in a seamless, integrated model. This model has now expanded to include socio-economic empowerment and survivor storytelling spaces to support reintegration and long-term recovery.
Professional Networks
IMLU works through a trusted countrywide network of healthcare professionals, lawyers, and psychologists. This expansive reach ensures that survivors across Kenya can access timely, comprehensive support wherever they are. To enhance continuity and efficiency, IMLU is now shifting from individual engagements to formal institutional partnerships, supported by Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) that strengthen capacity and sustainability.
Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
Collaboration lies at the core of IMLU’s impact. Strategic partnerships with hospitals, legal aid providers, and community organizations enhance service delivery and extend national reach.
IMLU also plays an active role in key coalitions, including Missing Voices, the Coalition Against Sexual Violence (CASV), and the Prison Reform Working Group, while convening the Police Reforms Working Group Kenya (PRWG-K) to drive collective action on justice and human rights. (Add a link to a page that has more info on this CTA, learn more about the Police Reforms Working Group Kenya (PRWG-K))
Advocacy that Transforms Systems
From championing the National Coroners Service Act to shaping national policies on torture prevention, IMLU has been at the forefront of legal and policy reform. Advocacy efforts are being scaled up through staff training and deeper engagement at regional and international levels to influence lasting change.
Direct Support Services
Providing medical, psychological, and legal support is central to IMLU’s approach. These direct services ensure holistic care for survivors of torture and related violations. By integrating in-person and digital tools, including telemedicine and virtual legal consultations, access to justice and healing is expanded, especially for individuals in remote and underserved areas.
Forensic documentation
Providing evidence-based factual documentation that enables justice and healing for survivors.
Rehabilitation
Providing holistic support, including medical and psychosocial services, to help survivors heal and reintegrate into society.
Litigation
Engaging in legal actions to hold perpetrators accountable and seek justice for victims of torture and related violations.
Advocacy
Promoting policy and legal reforms to prevent torture, and sexual violence, and improve the protection of human rights.
Capacity Building
Strengthening the capacity of state agencies and civil society organizations to respond effectively to torture, sexual violence, and related human rights violations cases.
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring and reporting on government adherence to international, regional, and national human rights commitments.
Research
Conducting strategic research to inform advocacy efforts and promote evidence-based interventions.
Social Economic Empowerment
Supporting survivors with skills, resources, and opportunities to rebuild their lives and achieve sustainable livelihoods.