Wholesome & Dignified Living — serving Kenya’s North Rift
ADS North Rift
Our focus
Our programmes respond to the realities communities face—not as isolated sectors, but as linked conditions shaping household dignity and resilience.
We combine technical knowledge, local leadership and partnership across five focus areas. The mix changes by place and need, but the aim remains the same: communities better able to shape secure, healthy and peaceful futures.
Programme areas
01 Focus area
We work with farmers, pastoralists, households and local enterprises to strengthen reliable food production and create more secure sources of income.
The work includes
02 Focus area
We help communities prepare for climate pressure while improving how water, land and other natural resources are protected and used.
The work includes
03 Focus area
We strengthen community knowledge, care pathways and local systems so women, children and vulnerable households can access better health and nutrition.
The work includes
04 Focus area
We work across community and institutional lines to reduce conflict, protect dignity and respond when drought, displacement or other emergencies disrupt life.
The work includes
05 Focus area
We strengthen the organisations and relationships that allow community priorities to influence decisions and sustain results beyond a single project.
The work includes
Our approach across every programme
Communities are the primary actors in their own development. They identify priorities, analyse their situation, make decisions, mobilise resources and lead action. ADS-NRR facilitates and accompanies this process, bringing technical knowledge and partnerships while communities retain ownership.
Communities express interest through their own structures. Together we establish a legitimate request and assess it against our mandate and capacity.
Communities share their agenda first. We build relationships, exchange expectations and agree how to cooperate with clear roles and mutual accountability.
Communities and Common Interest Groups (CIGs) use participatory tools to explore local knowledge, resources, challenges and options before deciding what to do.
Groups agree priorities, identify resources and plan responsibilities. They take action, monitor progress and adapt through regular reflection.
The four phases are supported by participatory, learning, action and reflection tool sets (PLAR). Mapping, seasonal calendars, ranking and action planning help groups understand their situation and choose responses. Reflection continues throughout the process.
The foundation is the attitude and behaviour change (ABC) of the development worker: listening respectfully, sharing power and facilitating without taking over. Women, men, young people, people with disabilities and less-heard groups must have meaningful opportunities to influence decisions.
See the work in context