by Inuka Kenya | Aug 27, 2024 | Articles, Stories
On August 27, 2010, a historic moment unfolded in Kenya as the 2010 Constitution was publicly promulgated at the iconic Uhuru Park. This event marked a significant milestone in the country’s long struggle for democracy, which spanned from the pre-independence era through the fight against dictatorship and authoritarianism. The journey to this new constitution was not just a legal endeavour; it was a testament to the resilience and aspirations of the Kenyan people.
A Legacy of Struggle
The road to the 2010 Constitution was paved with challenges and sacrifices. The previous constitution had been amended over 20 times, often in ways that undermined the very principles of democracy and justice. It was a pale reflection of the hopes that the Kenyan delegation had envisioned during the Lancaster Conferences in London in the early 1960s. The 2010 Constitution aimed to rectify these historical injustices and lay a solid foundation for a democratic Kenya.
The Promise of the 2010 Constitution
The 2010 Constitution introduced transformative changes that have greatly benefited the people of Kenya. Key features include:
- Devolution of Power: The establishment of county governments has brought governance closer to the people, allowing for more localized decision-making and resource allocation.
- Bill of Rights: The Constitution enshrines fundamental rights and freedoms, ensuring every Kenyan has access to justice and equality before the law.
- Gender Equality: It mandates the inclusion of women in political and public life, promoting gender equity and representation.
- Public Participation: The Constitution emphasizes the importance of citizen engagement in governance, ensuring that the voices of all Kenyans are heard.
These provisions have empowered citizens, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility in the democratic process.
The Role of Gen Z
As we celebrate the 14th anniversary of the 2010 Constitution, we must acknowledge the emerging force of Generation Z. Born between 1997 and 2012, this digital-savvy generation has become a powerful catalyst for change. While many members may lack direct memory of the events leading to the new constitution, their engagement with technology has allowed them to mobilize, organize, and advocate for their rights effectively.
Gen Z has demonstrated a commitment to upholding the Constitution, as outlined in Article 3, which emphasizes the duty of every citizen to defend it. Their collective voice reminds them that the quest for justice and equality is ongoing, and they are determined to hold leaders accountable.
Adherence to the Constitution
However, the question remains: have our leaders adhered to the tenets of the 2010 Constitution? While the Constitution has provided a framework for governance, the reality is that many challenges persist. Issues such as corruption, political patronage, and violations of human rights continue to undermine the spirit of the Constitution.
Despite these hurdles, the resilience of the Kenyan people, particularly the youth, shines through. They are not just passive observers; they are active participants in shaping the future of the nation. Through social media campaigns, protests, and grassroots movements, Gen Z is pushing for accountability and transparency from their leaders.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on the past 14 years, it is clear that the journey of the 2010 Constitution is far from over. The aspirations that fueled its creation remain alive, and the responsibility to uphold these ideals lies with all Kenyans, especially the youth.
The future destiny of Kenya indeed rests in the bodies, minds, and souls of Gen Z. Their energy, creativity, and determination are vital in ensuring that the promises of the Constitution are realized. As we commemorate this landmark anniversary, let us commit to working together to build a Kenya that truly reflects the values enshrined in the 2010 Constitution—a Kenya where justice, equality, and democracy thrive for all.
In the words of the Constitution, let us stand together to defend and uphold the rights and freedoms that are the birthright of every Kenyan. The journey continues, and the best is yet to come.
by Inuka Kenya | Aug 22, 2024 | Opportunities
RE-ADVERTISED
About Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi
Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi! Is a Kenyan grassroots social movement organization founded in 2009 and registered/incorporated as a Company Limited by Guarantee in 2012. It envisions a peaceful, united and well-governed Kenya with equal economic and social opportunity for all citizens. The organization exists to empower Kenyan citizens to improve their lives and demand good governance as a means to achieve socio-economic growth and equality of opportunity among all Kenyans. It aims to curate a social movement (the Ni Sisi! Movement) that will seek to unite Kenyans to forge a collective identity, drive transformation in leadership and improve maisha — wellbeing — for all Kenyans. To this end, Inuka supports community groups/organizations and collaborates with initiatives at the local, national and regional level to build capacity and linkages for effective collective action. Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi! philosophy is underpinned by the concept of “dignity before development” — each individual’s inherent dignity must be upheld at all levels of interaction.
Inuka Kenya has developed three strategic objectives which, together, will form the basis upon which citizens at the local level will find their efforts to take charge of their citizenship and governance processes. As such, the three objectives are the key pillars that will support the creation of a Ni Sisi! Social movement. These three objectives are:
- Restructure the Public Sphere: To create and curate narratives that seek to restructure the Kenyan public sphere using knowledge platforms, technology products and engaging civic actors and institutions within a framework of Utu.
- Enhance Individual Agency, Dignity and Livelihoods: To harness a collective positive and resilient identity in order to build, protect, restore and ensure human dignity for all.
- Transition to a National Social Movement: To transition from a Civil Society Organization, through partnerships, collaboration and membership development, to a national social movement of active citizens who hold governments to account.
Background and Purpose
The purpose of this research is to document the struggles, resilience, and contributions of heroines in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The focus will be on women who have made significant impacts in various fields such as social justice, human rights, community development, education, and healthcare. This documentation will highlight their challenges, triumphs, and the socio-cultural and political environments in which they operate.
Objectives of the study
Recognising the role played by various unsung and underrated heroines of the justice and liberation movements in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, the project seeks to produce documentaries unveiling the compelling narratives of unsung women human activists.
- To map out the heroines and their liberation struggles in the three countries.
- To memorialize the courage, dedication, commitment and solidarity of various women personalities in justice and liberation movements.
- To shed light on the resilience of women who dared to challenge oppression in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania
- To document the role of various women personalities for the current and future generation.
Scope of Work
- Literature Review: Conduct a comprehensive review of existing literature on women’s struggles and contributions in East Africa, focusing on Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
- Field Research: conduct interviews and gather firsthand accounts from the heroines, their families, community members, and other stakeholders.
- Data Collection: Utilize a mixed-method approach, including qualitative interviews, focus group discussions, and case studies, to gather detailed information on the struggles, achievements, and impacts of the identified heroines.
- Documentation: Compile and document the stories of selected heroines, ensuring a diverse representation of backgrounds, fields of work, and geographical locations.
- Analysis: Analyze the collected data to identify common themes, challenges, and strategies used by these women, and how these reflect the broader socio-cultural and political contexts of the region.
Methodology
- Qualitative Research: Employ qualitative research methods, including in-depth interviews, narrative analysis, and ethnographic approaches, to capture the nuanced experiences of the heroines.
- Participatory Approach: Engage the heroines and their communities in the research process to ensure that their voices and perspectives are accurately represented.
- Triangulation: Cross-reference data from multiple sources (e.g., interviews, literature, archival records) to ensure the reliability and validity of findings.
- Ethical Considerations: Adhere to ethical research standards, including obtaining informed consent, ensuring confidentiality, and respecting the dignity and autonomy of all participants.
Deliverables/Expected outputs
The consultant will work closely with Inuka staff to refine the proposed scope of work prior to the commencement of the assignment.
Key outputs will include the following:
- Develop a preliminary audio-visual and script on the struggles and liberation of the unsung heroines.
- Provide a detailed work plan clearly showing the information gathering, planning, design, development, testing and delivery of the assignment
- Provide detailed documentation of the heroines in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
- Develop a script and audio-visual documentary for each of the heroines for dissemination.
Caveat: All the materials, information and reports as an output of the assignment shall be the property of Inuka and the Consultant is bound by Inuka’s confidentiality requirements.
Work Plan and Time Schedule
The assignment will commence on January 13th, 2025 and be completed and a final report submitted by April 11th, 2025
Consultant’s Profile
Inuka seeks to engage the services of qualified and experienced individual consultants/consultancy firms to undertake the work:
Qualifications & Experience
The consultants/consultant firms must have the following qualifications and experience:
- Experience in working in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania and thorough knowledge of the struggle and liberation history.
- Strong understanding of gender issues, women’s rights, and socio-cultural and political dynamics in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
- Excellent writing and communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and effectively.
- Fluency in English and proficiency in local languages spoken in the research areas is an advantage.
- Awareness of copyright laws, consent, and ethical standards in documentary filmmaking.
- An eye for detail and a creative vision to guide the documentary’s visual style, tone, and overall aesthetic.
- The ability to craft a compelling narrative that effectively conveys the intended message, with a strong understanding of structure, pacing, and audience engagement.
Individuals / Organizations are invited to apply by submitting the following documents.
- Reference materials of previous assignments done.
- Curriculum Vitae of the individual(s) that will undertake the assignment.
- Proposed methodology and timeliness for the assignment.
- A budget quotation for the costs of the assignment.
Budget and Logistics
The consultant shall submit the proposed budget with broken down costs for particular items, for the assignment, including breakdown and justification.
Submission of proposals /EOI
Based on the above, Inuka is inviting interested parties to submit expressions of interest. Individuals or firms applying shall detail the following:
- Consultants’ profile and Capability Statement describing the technical capacity and experience of the firm or group of individuals
- Names and resumes of the individual(s) or team members proposed and their roles in the achievement of the assignment
- Testimonials and sample reports of similar assignments taken in the recent past
- Technical Proposal interpretation of the Terms of Reference (TORs)
- Financial Proposal demonstrating the costs of the consultancy
- Detailed implementation plan and time frames.
The proposal shall be sent, in soft, to the following emails: procurement@inukakenya.com and copy kenya@eawellnesshub.org
Previous applicants do not need to reapply.
The deadline for submission is November 27th, 2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
by Inuka Kenya | Aug 20, 2024 | Articles, Stories
I remember the day Sarah walked into our wellness class, her shoulders slumped and her eyes heavy with exhaustion. Sarah was always the cheerful one—the one who brought smiles and positive energy everywhere she went. But that day was different. She didn’t need to say a word; we all knew something was wrong.
After class, she sat with me in silence for a while, fidgeting with her phone before finally speaking. “I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I just… feel empty.”
I could see the frustration in her eyes. The pressure to keep it together was written all over her face, but behind it, there was something deeper—a cry for help, a feeling many of us experience but rarely talk about.
“I just need to be okay,” she said, her voice breaking.
And there it was: the belief so many of us have—that we always need to be okay.
But here’s the truth I told Sarah that day, a truth we often forget: **It’s okay not to be okay.**
The Pressure to Be Perfect
We live in a world where everyone’s life looks perfect online. Social media is full of happy faces, exciting travels, and picture-perfect moments. It’s easy to believe that everyone has it all together, and if you’re struggling, you must be doing something wrong.
But what we don’t see are the tough moments-the tears, the anxiety, the sleepless nights. No one is perfect, and no one has it together all the time. Yet, we constantly pressure ourselves to feel okay, to act like everything is fine when, inside, it feels like a storm.
Sarah’s story is a reminder of how human we all are. No matter how much we try to smile through the pain, our emotions are a part of us. And sometimes, they demand to be felt.
The Power of Accepting Our Emotions
As Sarah and I talked that day, I asked her to try something she hadn’t done in a long time – accept how she felt without judgment.
“I feel lost,” she whispered. And with that admission came a flood of emotions—sadness, frustration, confusion. But for the first time, Sarah allowed herself to **just feel** without trying to fix anything.
And that’s the magic. The moment we accept our emotions, we begin to heal. It doesn’t mean the sadness goes away instantly, but by acknowledging it, we give ourselves permission to be human.
Healing Through Connection
Over the next few weeks, Sarah started sharing her journey with close friends and family. At first, she feared they would think less of her, but something surprising happened—many opened up about their own struggles. She realized she wasn’t alone.
In our darkest moments, it’s easy to feel isolated, but the truth is, we are all carrying something. When we open up, we find support, connection, and understanding. That’s where healing begins—not in pretending everything is fine but in sharing our truth with others.
It’s Okay Not to Be Okay
If you’re feeling like Sarah did that day—overwhelmed, lost, or simply not yourself—know that you don’t need to be okay right now. Life has its ups and downs, and every emotion you feel is valid.
Take a deep breath. Share your feelings with someone you trust. Most importantly, give yourself permission to feel whatever you’re feeling.
Because in the end, it’s okay not to be okay.
And that’s where true healing begins.
by Inuka Kenya | Aug 12, 2024 | Articles, Stories
Happy International Youth Day! Today, August 12, 2024, we celebrate this year’s theme, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.” This theme shines a light on the transformative power of digital innovation and how young people are leading the way toward sustainable change.
In Kenya, the recent protests against the Finance Bill 2024 offer a vivid illustration of this theme. The digital realm was not just a backdrop but a pivotal arena where the voices of young Kenyans resonated loudly, driving significant social and political change. Here’s a closer look at how digital pathways played a crucial role in these demonstrations and what this means for governance and accountability.
The Digital Spark: Mobilizing for Change
The Finance Bill 2024, a proposed piece of legislation, sparked widespread discontent among Kenyans. Many viewed it as a threat to their economic well-being and an example of governance that lacked transparency. However, what made this protest stand out was the remarkable role of the youth and their innovative use of digital platforms.
Social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram became the battlegrounds for the protest. The hashtag #RejectFinanceBill2024 quickly gained traction, uniting voices from across the country. Kenyan youth, well-versed in digital communication, used these platforms to share information, organize rallies, and mobilize support. Their digital skills turned an abstract policy issue into a national movement.
Harnessing Digital Tools: The Role of Youth
Young Kenyans demonstrated impressive digital dexterity in several ways:
- Information Dissemination: Through engaging infographics, videos, and real-time updates, they kept the public informed about the bill’s implications and the nature of the protests. This widespread awareness was crucial in garnering support from diverse groups.
- Mobilization and Organization: Digital tools facilitated the rapid organization of demonstrations. Youth used social media platforms such as TwitterSpaces, and TikTok to coordinate logistics, ensuring that protests were well-organized and impactful.
- Engagement and Advocacy: Online petitions, open letters, and advocacy campaigns helped amplify their voices, putting pressure on lawmakers to reconsider the bill. The digital space provided a platform for dialogue between citizens and policymakers.
- Building Solidarity: By sharing personal stories and experiences related to the #RejectFinance Bill2024, the youth created a sense of solidarity and collective purpose, turning individual grievances into a united call for change.
The Impact: Governance and Accountability
The protests, fueled by the digital prowess of Kenyan youth, led to a significant outcome—the Finance Bill was re-evaluated, showcasing the power of grassroots digital activism. This victory highlighted several key points:
- Youth as Catalysts for Change: The ability of young people to leverage digital tools for political and social mobilization is a powerful force for democratic engagement and reform.
- Increased Accountability: The government’s response to the protests underscores the need for transparency and accountability. Digital activism has made it clear that citizens are watching and demanding better governance.
- Ongoing Struggle: While the Finance Bill was revised, the struggle for fair governance continues. The youth’s digital activism is a reminder that the path to sustainable development is ongoing and requires persistent effort.
Looking Forward: Digital Pathways for a Better Future
As we celebrate International Youth Day, it’s essential to recognize the transformative role of digital pathways in shaping a more equitable and accountable society. The recent events in Kenya are a testament to how the intersection of youth, technology, and activism can drive meaningful change.
The journey from clicks to progress is not just about leveraging digital tools but about fostering a culture of engagement, transparency, and continuous advocacy. Kenyan youth have shown us that with the right digital skills and a united voice, they can influence policy, demand accountability, and pave the way for a better future.
by Inuka Kenya | Jul 20, 2024 | Press Statements, Stories
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
20th July 2024
For decades, Civil Society Organizations in Kenya have been the backbone of our nation, tirelessly safeguarding democratic values and principles, amplifying the voices of vulnerable communities, promoting transparency and accountability, and ensuring the rights of all Kenyans are upheld. Their contributions have been instrumental in our nation’s growth and stability, and their efforts have consistently upheld the principles of justice and democracy.
In the last three months, civil society and the media have engaged robustly in pushing for public finance management accountability, including public debt, protection of human rights, especially freedom of expression and the right to assemble, including protest, active citizenship, end of extrajudicial executions, enforced disappearances, abductions, and even theft of public resources.
Kenyans share these concerns and are now pushing for an accountable government at all levels, especially the executive and legislative arms. The continued neglect of the need for an accountable and transparent government that respects and values the voices of the people of Kenya is the reason for the continued protests across several parts of the country.
Against this background, we are deeply concerned by the recent letter from the Government of Kenya implying that CSOs fund and support unlawful behaviour and unruly protests, which starkly contradict our work. We categorically repudiate these unfounded accusations and reiterate our call for the government to remain true to the constitution and protect independent civil society organisations and media in Kenya. CSOs have been instrumental in Kenya’s development and play a pivotal role in protecting human rights, upholding the rule of law, promoting good governance and fostering social and economic progress.
We unequivocally condemn any unlawful acts during protests. The allegations that CSOs are complicit in promoting illegal activities are false and undermine the invaluable work they do to strengthen our society and are aimed at tarnishing the perception of CSOs to the citizenry we serve. In recent months, CSOs have risen to initiate rapid response interventions to meet the pressing and overwhelming needs and concerns of Kenyans affected by the crisis through providing legal aid for those arrested or abducted, medical assistance for those injured, and psychosocial support for individuals and families affected. Furthermore, they have continued to amplify advocacy on the human rights and governance concerns presented by Kenyans. These actions, which CSOs have championed over a long period, should not be misconstrued as support for the acts of lawlessness and violence meted against Kenyans and which CSOs have consistently called out all through the protests.
The suggestion that young people, particularly the GenZ, are being funded to speak up and use their voices devalues their genuine contributions to Kenya’s development. Young Kenyans have shown remarkable dedication and initiative in advocating for positive change. Their voices are not just essential but inspiring in shaping the future of our nation, and they deserve to be heard and respected.
We are alarmed by the unprecedented violent crackdowns, abductions and disappearances of Kenyans who have expressed concern over the state of governance and human rights in Kenya. We see the CSOs as an extension of the ongoing general repression against civic space and human rights defenders. In recent weeks, prominent human rights organisations in the country have been subjected to an increase in acts of intimidation, harassment, and threats by the authorities, as well as threats against partners that fund their human rights work. These attacks and threats have also been unleashed upon the media and individual journalists.
We call upon the government and all stakeholders to protect the Kenyan civic space. CSOs must be allowed to operate without undue interference or baseless accusations. The constitution of Kenya guarantees the right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression. These rights must be protected and honoured, not only for CSOs but for every Kenyan.
We reiterate the calls from young people and other advocates for the Constitution of Kenya to be followed to the letter. Unlawful actions by goons, police, and other state agents must cease immediately. We demand strict accountability in the budget-making process, a thorough constitutional audit of public debt that has impeded service delivery, and the interdiction and prosecution of all people accused of corruption and theft of public money. The rule of law is paramount, and all parties must be accountable for their actions.
In conclusion, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to supporting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. We stand in solidarity with the civil society organizations that continue to champion these values, and we urge the government to recognize and respect their indispensable role in our nation’s progress. In closing, we continue that Kenyans stay woke and continue their role as active Citizens as the people with direct power on the affairs of the Kenyan state and, in turn, call on the government to keep all channels for direct participation of the people open even when they are cause discomfort to those in authority.
Name the organisations
- Action Aid International Kenya
- Africa Centre for Open Governance (AFRICOG)
- African Forum for Debt and Development (AFRODAD)
- Amnesty International Kenya
- Article 19 Eastern Africa
- Badili Africa
- Bajeti Hub
- Centre for Enhancing Democracy and Good Governance
- Centre for Rights Education and Awareness (CREAW)
- CRAWN Trust
- Civic Freedoms Forum (CFF)
- Christian Aid International Kenya
- Coalition for Grassroots Human Rights Defenders
- Community Aid International
- Democracy without Borders – Kenya
- Emerging Leaders Foundation
- End Femicide-KE Movement
- Feminists in Kenya
- Federation for Women Lawyers Kenya (FIDA Kenya)
- Human Rights Watch
- Initiative for Equality and Non-Discrimination
- International Commission of Jurists Kenya
- International Medical Legal Unit
- Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi!
- Institute for Public Finance Kenya
- Kenya Human Rights Commission
- Law Society of Kenya
- Mzalendo Trust
- National Coalition for Human Rights Defenders
- NAWI Collective
- Open Institute
- Siasa Place
- SDG Forum Kenya
- Shield for Justice
- The Institute for Social Accountability
- Transparency International Kenya
- Tribeless Youth
- Trust Africa
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