EU–Kenya Civil Society Forum Reinforces Joint Commitment to Democratic Development

The government has committed to creating a conducive operating environment for Civil Society Organizations in their partnerships with the European Union.

This was affirmed by the Principal Secretary, State Department for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo during the EU – Kenya Civil Society Forum.

“The Government views Civil Society as an indispensable partner in national stability and development. Our commitment is to create a conducive operating environment is underscored by the continued focus on implementing the Public Benefits Organisations (PBO) Act, 2013,” he stated.

According to the PS, when CSOs are empowered, they become true agents of peace, security, and accountability in our communities, directly supporting the forum’s focus on Governance, Peace, and Security.

Led by FEMNET, the SDGs Kenya Forum, and WECF International, the forum aims to strengthen the capacities and influence of Kenyan Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) as independent actors.

In her welcome remarks, FEMNET board Chairperson Carole Ageng’o the year-long inclusive dialogue which ends with the forum indicates that when CSOs from all regional blocs come together with the EU Delegation, a lot can be achieved creating a democratic future.

“We welcome this significant acceleration of the EU-Kenya CSO Cooperation. This forum is the culmination of a year-long inclusive dialogue, proving that when CSOs from all regional blocs come together with the EU Delegation, we possess the power to move mountains and co-create a truly inclusive, democratic future,” she said.

This is even as the Presidential Advisor on Women’s Rights Harriet Chiggai, added that critical for resourcing CSOs that are actively driving gender-responsive policy and ensuring that the voices of women and youth.

“This partnership is critical for resourcing CSOs that are actively driving gender-responsive policy and ensuring that the voices of women and youth are not only heard but lead the collective action for transformative change in Kenya,” Chiggai stated.

The EU-Kenya Partnership is a crucial resource for our CSOs, enabling them to innovate and deliver on our national goals, particularly in economic planning and sustainable development.

The Forum aims to continue the structured, inclusive dialogue, review progress on the EU Civil Society Roadmap (2022-2025), and produce a summary report with key recommendations for 2026.