EACHRights launches 2026–2030 Strategic Plan to advance health and social rights

The East African Centre for Human Rights (EACHRights) has launched its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, outlining a five-year roadmap aimed at strengthening health equity, social and economic rights, and human dignity for vulnerable and marginalized communities across East Africa.

The plan was unveiled on Thursday at the Tamarind Tree Hotel along Lang’ata Link Road in Nairobi during a high-level forum that brought together government officials, civil society organizations (CSOs), development partners, donors, and community representatives from across the region.

Speaking during the launch, EACHRights Executive Director Gilbert Onyango said the new strategy responds to persistent inequalities that continue to limit access to quality healthcare and social services. 

“This strategic plan marks a bold and transformative chapter for EACHRights. It is grounded in systemic change and inclusive development, with a strong focus on the realization of economic and social rights, particularly the right to health, for those who are most left behind,” Onyango said.

He noted that the strategy places communities at the center of advocacy and accountability efforts. 

“Over the next five years, we are strengthening community voices so that policies and budgets reflect the real health needs of children, women and girls, youth, and persons with disabilities,” he added.

EACHRights Executive Director Gilbert Onyango and team during the launch

Founded in May 2010, EACHRights is an independent, non-partisan, non-governmental organization (NGO) working at national, regional, and international levels to address gaps in human rights protection, with a focus on healthcare access, social protection, and accountable public service delivery.

Development partners welcomed the new plan, saying it aligns with national and regional health priorities.

An Oxfam representative, Edwin Birech, said accountability and participation remain critical to improved health outcomes. 

“The emphasis on accountability and community participation is critical in improving health outcomes and accelerating progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC),” Birech said.

Civil society leaders at the event also welcomed the renewed focus on partnerships, noting that collaboration will be key to achieving impact. 

“EACHRights has consistently bridged the gap between communities and duty bearers, and this strategy strengthens collective action to address health inequalities,” Birech said.

ERIKS Development Partners representative Brenda Atieno reiterated support for the organization’s work, saying continued investment would help sustain long-term change. 

“Our support is driven by the confidence that EACHRights delivers results by empowering communities and strengthening systems that protect the right to health,” Atieno said.

EACHRights said collaboration with partners, donors, and stakeholders will be critical in translating the 2026–2030 Strategic Plan into measurable improvements in health and social outcomes across Kenya and the wider East African region.