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Tag: AFOSC Kenya

  • Lobby urges calm amid rising political tension in Isiolo

    Lobby urges calm amid rising political tension in Isiolo

    Action for Sustainable Change (AFOSC-Kenya) has appealed for calm in Isiolo County following concerns over growing political tension.

    In a statement, AFOSC-Kenya executive director Mohamed Sheikh urged leaders to put aside partisan interests and embrace dialogue to safeguard peace and stability in the region.

    He noted that sustainable development can only thrive in an environment built on peace and mutual respect.

    He warned that Isiolo’s progress is at risk if politics is allowed to divide the community.

    The organisation, which has previously championed peace and dialogue initiatives in the North Eastern region, is now urging Isiolo leaders, citizens and stakeholders to take a similar path to ease tensions.

  • Lobby condemns violence during protests, urges calm and respect for human rights

    Lobby condemns violence during protests, urges calm and respect for human rights

    Action for Sustainable Change (AFOSC-Kenya) has condemned the violence reported in parts of the country during the June 25 anniversary demonstrations.

    In a statement issued Thursday, the lobby called for calm and restraint from both the protestors and security forces.

    The organisation expressed concern over the loss, fear, and disruption caused during the protests, noting that violence only serves to deepen divisions and stall meaningful solutions.

    “We urge all citizens to remain calm and peaceful. Violence only deepens divisions and delays solutions,” the statement read in part.

    AFOSC-Kenya further called on police and other security agencies to exercise professionalism and avoid excessive force in their response to protests and demonstrations.

    “Security operations must be guided by professionalism, restraint, and respect for the rule of law,” the group said, urging authorities to respect human rights in handling the current situation.

    The organisation further called on all stakeholders including government officials, religious leaders, and communities to work collaboratively to defuse tensions and foster unity.

    “Let us choose peace, uphold dialogue, and protect the dignity of every Kenyan,” the statement concluded.

  • Lobby group launches campaign to boost peace, security cooperation in Mandera

    Lobby group launches campaign to boost peace, security cooperation in Mandera

    A civil society group has kicked off a campaign aimed at strengthening ties between local residents and security agencies in a bid to tackle insecurity and promote lasting peace in Mandera County.

    The initiative by AFOSC-Kenya began with a community roadshow in Mandera Town, bringing together residents, government officials, and security actors for open dialogue on improving trust and collaboration.

    The event was officially flagged off by the Deputy County Commissioner for Mandera East and was attended by senior officers from the Mandera County Government’s Department of Cohesion.

    Organisers said the roadshow offered an inclusive platform for community members to voice their concerns, share experiences, and explore practical solutions to local security challenges.

    “This initiative is part of AFOSC-Kenya’s ongoing commitment to promoting peace, mutual understanding, and community-led security solutions in Mandera County,” stated AFOSC Executive Director Mohamed Sheikh.

    The organisation plans to roll out similar roadshows in other parts of the county to lay the groundwork for community-led security structures, in partnership with local leaders and government agencies.

  • Mandera County Gov’t, lobby lead community dialogue to tackle emerging conflicts

    Mandera County Gov’t, lobby lead community dialogue to tackle emerging conflicts

    The County Government of Mandera and Action for Sustainable Change (AFOSC Kenya) led a community dialogue meeting aimed at promoting peace, cohesion, and locally led solutions to emerging conflict issues in the region.

    The forum, held in Mandera town, brought together a diverse range of stakeholders including government officials, civil society representatives, religious leaders, and peace practitioners.

    The event was supported by the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the Danish Refugee Council (DRC).

    Speaking during the official opening, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Public Service and Conflict Management reaffirmed Mandera’s commitment to inclusive and participatory conflict resolution.

    The CECM emphasized that sustainable peace can only be achieved through collective action and community-driven interventions.

    AFOSC Kenya Executive Director Mohamed Sheikh reiterated the organization’s long-standing commitment to grassroots peacebuilding, strengthening social cohesion, and building resilient communities across Mandera County.

    AFSOC Kenya Executive Director Mohamed Sheikh
  • Lobby calls for multi-sectoral response mechanisms to curb GBV, femicide

    Lobby calls for multi-sectoral response mechanisms to curb GBV, femicide

    A lobby group has urged stakeholders to establish coordinated multi-sectoral response mechanisms to tackle cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide in the country.

    Action for Sustainable Change (AFOSC Kenya) made the call during the ongoing public participation exercise by the Technical Working Group (TWG) on gender-based violence and femicide.

    Mohamed Sheikh, Executive Director AFOSC Kenya.

    During the meeting, AFOSC Executive Director Mohamed Sheikh outlined key concerns over rising cases of GBV, inadequate support systems for survivors, and called for the establishment of a coordinated, multi-sectoral response framework to combat the crisis.

    The meeting is part of a countrywide public participation exercise by the Technical Working Group to collect views from Kenyans and develop actionable strategies to curb GBV and femicide.

    The 35-member team was appointed by President William Ruto through a Gazette notice issued on January 10.

    It is mandated to assess, review and recommend improvements to Kenya’s institutional, legal and policy responses to GBV and femicide.

    Chaired by former Deputy Chief Justice Nancy Baraza, the committee includes Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo, former Marakwet MP Linah Jebii Kilimo, and Nairobi Women’s Hospital founder Dr. Sam Thenya.

  • Mandera: Lobby condemns killing of women, children in Banisa

    Mandera: Lobby condemns killing of women, children in Banisa

    Action for Sustainable Change (AFOSC Kenya) has condemned the recent killing of women and children in Banisa, Mandera County, terming it a gross violation of human rights.

    In a statement, AFOSC expressed outrage over the incident saying the targeting of women and children is not only a violation of human rights but also an attack on the country’s social fabric.

    “We strongly condemn these senseless and inhumane acts of violence that have claimed the lives of innocent civilians and devastated families and communities,” the statement read.

    The organisation called on the relevant authorities to swiftly investigate the incident and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.

    “The targeting of women and children is not only a violation of human rights but also an assault on the dignity and security of every Kenyan,” the organisation reiterated.

    AFOSC further emphasised its commitment to peacebuilding and sustainable development, stating that violence cannot be a solution to any grievance.

    “Violence is never a solution. Only through unity, accountability, and compassion can we build a future where all people can live in safety and dignity. We stand in solidarity with the affected families and the entire Banisa community during this time of grief,” the organisation added.

    The killings, which occurred in Banisa Constituency along the Kenya-Ethiopia border, have sparked fresh concerns over insecurity in northern Kenya where civilians continue to bear the brunt of unresolved tensions.

    Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the incident.

  • Lobby urges MPs to align CDF with needs of marginalised communities

    Lobby urges MPs to align CDF with needs of marginalised communities

    Action for Sustainable Change (AFOSC Kenya) has urged lawmakers to ensure the proposed Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill 2025 that seeks to envisage various development funds including  the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), into the Constitution is more responsive to the needs of marginalised communities.

    Speaking during a public participation forum in Takaba, Mandera West Constituency, AFOSC Kenya Executive Director Mohamed Sheikh stressed the need for the proposed legislation to deliver equitable development in a transparent manner.

    “Public participation is not only a constitutional requirement but a vital tool in shaping policies that directly impact citizens. Our input focused on enhancing transparency, community oversight, and equitable resource allocation,” the Executive Director stated.

    The forum, part of a nationwide effort to collect views on the CDF Bill, brought together community members, civil society organisations, and government officials.

    The lobby group reaffirmed its commitment to promoting good governance, accountability, and inclusive development.

    The nationwide public participation exercise which kicked off on Monday has drawn diverse views across the country with Kenyans from various regions urging the national government not to revert the control of the fund to the National Treasury but instead increase its allocation.

    Mandera West residents participate in the ongoing public hearings on the proposed Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill 2025.
  • Lobby warns against politicisation of teacher recruitment

    Lobby warns against politicisation of teacher recruitment

    Action for Sustainable Change (AFOSC Kenya) has raised alarm over rising political interference in the recruitment and deployment of teachers, warning it risks undermining professionalism and compromising the quality of education in Kenya.

    AFOSC Kenya Executive Director Mohamed Sheikh said that the recruitment, promotion, and deployment of teachers should be based on merit, not political connections.

    “Teachers should be recruited, promoted, and deployed based on professional qualifications, experience, and performance – not political influence. We urge political leaders to respect the professionalism of the education sector and refrain from meddling in its management,” Sheikh stated.

    The group’s concerns come amid growing public debate over the role of political leaders in teacher recruitment processes.

    In some counties, MPs have been linked to the distribution of employment letters and involvement in teacher postings, actions that have sparked concern among education stakeholders.

    The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has also condemned the alleged involvement of politicians in the teacher recruitment process.

    KNUT Secretary General Collins Oyuu said interference from members of the political class has unjustly excluded deserving teachers from employment opportunities.

    The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has echoed similar concerns, cautioning that such practices risk undermining teacher morale and perpetuating unfairness in postings and promotions.

    AFOSC Kenya has, however, reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for fair and transparent practices that uphold the integrity of the teaching profession and ensure quality learning outcomes for all.

  • Lobby group backs Ruto on Conflict of Interest Bill, urges tougher anti-graft laws

    Lobby group backs Ruto on Conflict of Interest Bill, urges tougher anti-graft laws

    A non-profit organisation has lauded President William Ruto for rejecting the contentious Conflict of Interest Bill, terming it a bold step towards upholding ethical leadership and protecting public resources.

    In a statement, Action for Sustainable Change (AFOSC-Kenya) welcomed the President’s decision to return the Bill to the National Assembly after opposing a clause that would have allowed spouses of public officials to conduct business with the government.

    AFOSC-Kenya Executive Director Mohamed Sheikh said the rejected provision posed a serious threat to transparency, noting it would have opened the door to corruption and favoritism through backdoor dealings.

    “This move signals true leadership and a commitment to protecting the public interest. The attempted weakening of the bill by the Senate would have undermined years of progress in strengthening integrity within public service,” said Sheikh.

    The lobby urged Parliament to restore the original intent of the proposed law, calling for legislation that reflects the values of accountability, equity, and sustainable development.

    “AFOSC stands with all Kenyans demanding a more ethical government. Together, we can build systems that serve the people-not personal interests,” he affirmed.

    On Thursday, President Ruto has referred the Conflict of Interest Bill back to Parliament for reconsideration saying the bill falls short of what Kenyans expect in the fight against corruption.

    “I expect both Houses of Parliament to exercise leadership in making sure we get a piece of law that help us manage and eventually eliminate matters corruption, that in many cases come as a result of conflict of interest by public officials who serve not the public, but their interests,” Ruto stated.

    While the Bill as presented largely addresses the subject of conflict of interest, the President noted the need for further improvements to strengthen its provisions on transparency and enforcement to align it with the constitutional values of integrity and good governance.

  • Calls grow for collaboration between gov’t, local elders after release of abducted Mandera Chiefs

    Calls grow for collaboration between gov’t, local elders after release of abducted Mandera Chiefs

    The release of of five Chiefs who were abducted by suspected Al-Shabaab militants in Mandera County on February 3 has renewed the calls for enhanced collaboration between the government and local elders to secure the North Eastern region.

    Action for Sustainable Change (AFOSC Kenya) is among local organisations that have long advocated for peace-building and community-driven security solutions in the region.

    According to AFOSC Kenya Executive Director Mohamed Sheikh, the safe return of the chiefs marks a critical moment of relief for the region and serves as a testament to the effectiveness of coordinated peace-building efforts.

    In a statement, Sheikh commended the swift intervention of the national government, Mandera County authorities, and the local council of elders, noting that their combined efforts and coordination secured the release of the chiefs without incident.

    “This incident underscores the importance of continued cooperation between government authorities, local elders to safeguard our communities and uphold human dignity,” said Sheikh.

    Sheikh reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting grassroots peace building efforts and working with all stakeholders to promote community dialogue and sustainable engagement in the region.

    “AFOSC Kenya has been working closely with the Office of the County Commissioner and the Mandera County Government to promote peace and trust building between security actors and community in the region. This incident has reaffirmed the value of building strong local partnerships and community-based approaches,” he stated.

    The chiefs, Adawa Abdi Mohamed, Mohamed Hassan Kulumia, Mohamednur Hache, Abdi Hassan Suraw, and Ibrahim Gabow, were reunited with their families on Saturday, April 12.

    They were reportedly abducted in Wargadud while heading to Elwak for official duties and taken across the border into Somalia.