Our History
Where we started
Establishment (2002): REPSSI was founded to address the psychosocial needs of children and adolescents affected by HIV/AIDS and other adversities in eastern and southern Africa. It aimed to promote mental health and well-being through community-based approaches.
Initial Focus: In its early years, REPSSI concentrated on supporting orphans and vulnerable children, providing training to caregivers and community workers on psychosocial support.
Regional Expansion (2005-2010): REPSSI expanded its reach, establishing partnerships with governments, NGOs, and community-based organizations across various countries, including Zambia, Malawi, and Kenya. This period saw an increased emphasis on integrating psychosocial support into health and education systems.
Developing Training Programs: REPSSI developed comprehensive training programs for mental health professionals, educators, and community leaders, focusing on skills for providing effective psychosocial support.
Advocacy and Research (2011-2015): The organization engaged in advocacy efforts to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and psychosocial support, leading to the development of policies and frameworks that incorporate mental health into broader health strategies.
Integration into Social, Education and Health Systems (2016-Present): REPSSI has worked to integrate psychosocial support into health services, particularly for children and young people and caregivers, ensuring mental health is a fundamental aspect of care.
REPSSI’s recent focus areas include mental health, HIV prevention and care, sexual and reproductive health rights, and fostering psychosocial support in educational environments for better development outcomes. They work to strengthen social protection systems to prevent violence and promote sustainable livelihoods. Additionally, REPSSI builds resilience against climate change, addresses disaster risk reduction, and supports humanitarian responses in the region.
REPSSI continues to collaborate with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and international agencies, to enhance the mental health and psychosocial support landscape in the region.
Today, REPSSI remains a key player in advocating for and providing mental health and psychosocial support, with a strong emphasis on community engagement and the empowerment of local organizations to sustain mental health initiatives.