Kenya

With the proclamation of a new constitution in 2010, the long-standing struggle for democratisation in Kenya had reached an important milestone. However, the often highly controversial elections that have taken place since then have repeatedly revealed Kenya's political challenges. Despite the new constitution – the content of which must also be lived and made tangible for the broad majority of the population – and the associated de-centralisation of political decision-making, inequality and poverty continue to increase in Kenya. In addition to rising social and economic inequality, there are other challenges associated with rapid urbanisation, the effects of climate change, immense gender inequality and security challenges in the region.

FES Kenya supports its partners in meeting these challenges and in initiating and implementing socially just, ecologically sustainable, democratic and constructive policy changes. The overarching goals of FES' cooperation with its Kenyan partners are: a socio-ecological transformation towards an economic order that benefits all Kenyans and rejects all forms of exploitation; equitable urban development that reduces political and economic inequality through participation of urban dwellers; decent work as well as free and member-oriented trade unions that promote social justice and social security. The benefits of the new constitution must be experienced and realized by all in order to gain sufficient support.

To achieve these goals, the FES works with various partners in different formats. The focus lies on dialogue measures and working groups in which various stakeholders work together on specific issues and network with the aim of achieving socially just political change. Concrete examples of this are a working group consisting of trade unions, economists and civil society organisations, which advocates for fair wages and improved social security. Another working group supported by FES brings together various civil society organisations and political decision-makers to work together for fairer access to public goods and services such as housing, transport and education in various urban areas in Kenya. All initiatives have a specific focus on gender equality. At the level of decentralised counties, the FES continues to support its partners in their efforts to improve political participation in relation to specific issues. At this level, for example, the focus is on advocating for fairer land distribution, inclusive adaptation to climate change and the effective implementation of development plans. In addition, the FES Kenya supports young people from civil society, various political parties and trade unions with its Political Leadership and Governance Programme (PLGP) and Global Outlook Trade Union School (GOTUS).

Find out more about our work in Kenya on the FES office’s website.