The Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, National Cohesion and Constitutional Affairs and the National Cohesion and Integration Commission held ten regional workshops from Oct. 31 to Nov. 24, 2011 to solicit views and information towards the formulation of the National Cohesion and Integration Policy for Kenya. The policy aims at ensuring Kenya becomes a prosperous, equitable and socially cohesive society where the citizens have a shared vision and sense of belonging alongside the recognition of their diversity. The policy is being developed in the context of the Constitution of Kenya (2010) and the Kenya Vision 2030.

During the consultative workshops, information and views on the concepts of national cohesion and integration; historical gaps and challenges in the creation of national cohesion and integration in the country; factors that can promote national cohesion and integration and the challenges to their application; strategies and interventions towards achieving and sustaining national cohesion and integration; roles of stakeholders; resource mobilization; implementation and monitoring were collected.

The workshops, which were held in Nakuru, Kisumu, Kakamega, Nyeri, Kitale, Isiolo, Wajir, Machakos, Mombasa and Nairobi, attracted participants from state and non-state organs. The workshops were supported by various development partners including the GIZ, European Union, Konrad Adenaur Stiftung and Mt. Elgon Residents’ Association.