Katiba Institute(KI) launched its second strategic plan, that will run till 2024, on Thursday 18^th November, 2021 in Nairobi. The event brought together KI’s board and staff, KI’s development partners, members of Civil Society Organizations, representatives from independent commissions and oversight bodies, KI Alumni and citizens who follow and support KI’s vision.

Abdulkadir Noormohamed, Director, Africa, Luminate Group, was the Chief Guest of the event. He highlighted his close association with Katiba Institute both as a development partner and collaborator in supporting KI’s vision of advancing the rule of the law and constitutionalism in Kenya.

Abdulkadir lauded KI in its efforts of entrenching a culture of constitutionalism in Kenya:

“Your influence has been greatly felt in public interest litigation on matters of national importance, particularly in advocating for transparency and accountability in governance in this country. KI’s impact however, goes beyond the court judgments and corridors of justice. KI has equally proven itself in advancing knowledge about the Constitution in the public sphere, building the capacities of policy makers, equipping citizens with tools to demand accountability in service delivery, as well as influencing legislative reforms.”

The chairperson of KI’S board Jill Cottrell Ghai reflected the process of development of the Strategic plan noting that all the players involved played an impressive role. Speaking about KI’s vision, Jill noted that it was Prof. Yash Pal’s idea (around 2003) because of the the Threat he anticipated to the yet-to-be Constitution.

Jill highlighted key milestones of KI in Litigation, research, and programmes work. She also spoke of KI’s commitment to its vision:

“KI and its wonderful Board retain this vision of a KI that is committed to the rights of the excluded and the voiceless, as well as keeping those who are supposed to implement the constitution on the straight and narrow. And we also want to strengthen the wider East African connections – and not just by playing the EAC anthem at the beginning of events like this.”

Prof. Yash Pal Ghai thanked all those who had worked with KI and supported KI’s journey. He said that many people sacrificed to ensure KI grows to a national institution it is today.

Dr. Linda Musumba who represented the Board of Directors, expressed her pride in serving at the KI’S board because of its accomplishments in and out of court. She observed that KI has a good culture at all levels thus its success.

Katiba Institute Executive Director, Christine Nkonge took attendees through KI’s journey since its formation – “an exciting, sometimes difficult and tiring, but always fulfilling journey.” She thanked the founding members of KI while acknowledging their continued support to the organization. Christine also appreciated the board of directors for being always supportive.

“The Institute began with a staff of three and now has grown to a staff of eighteen. The Institute’s Board of Directors, are currently six, apart from the Ghais, we have Father Gabriel Dolan, John Sibi-Okumu, Dr. Linda Musumba and, retired Chief Justice Dr. Willy Mutunga. Abdullah Bujra and retired Chief Justice of Tanzania Barnabas Samatta, were previous members of our Board.”

Waikwa Wanyoike, one of KI’s founding member and first Executive Director, applauded KI’s leadership for maintaining KI’s mission and vision. Waikwa noted the immense contribution and support of the Alumni and the unique culture of Katiba Institute.

Christine Kuria, the Institution’s Operations Manager, made a presentation about the 2020 – 2024 Strategic Plan. She took participants through the organizational identity, governance, strategic analysis, strategic choices and implementation modalities.

Download Katiba Institute Strategic Plan 2020 – 2024 

By Kevin Mabonga