On 10 July 2025, Katiba Institute (KI) officially launched its third Strategic Plan, which will guide its work over the next five years, from 2025 to 2029. This strategic framework reaffirms the organisation’s mission to promote the understanding, implementation, and defence of Kenya’s Constitution. It expands KI’s focus to address emerging constitutional and human rights challenges locally, regionally, and globally.

At the heart of Katiba Institute’s work is the belief that constitutionalism is fundamental to a just and democratic society. The organisation envisions a Kenya where citizens know their constitutional rights and responsibilities and actively engage in governance processes. By cultivating a culture of constitutionalism, KI aims to promote accountability and responsiveness in government and ensure that both state and non-state actors consistently uphold the supreme law. In doing so, the organisation affirms the role of the people in holding government institutions accountable and safeguarding democratic principles.

During the launch event, Commissioner Lawrence Murugu Mute, the Chief Guest, commended Katiba Institute for its unwavering commitment to constitutional values and its impact on Kenya’s legal and civic landscape.He challenged the organisation to continue its pursuit of a just and equitable society grounded in constitutionalism. Commissioner Mute noted that Kenyans have come to trust Katiba Institute to defend the Constitution whenever it is threatened. He further called on the organisation to advocate for laws that protect vulnerable populations, especially persons with disabilities, and urged it to remain vigilant in demanding accountability. “We cannot stop demanding accountability. It is our duty to ensure that Kenya and Kenyans never forget,” he said.

The launch also featured remarks from Professor Jill Cottrell Ghai, Chair of the Board of Directors at Katiba Institute. She spoke on the organisation’s long-term sustainability and relevance, underscoring the importance of the newly launched strategy in guiding KI’s future. She affirmed the Board’s full support for implementing the plan and extended gratitude to all stakeholders for their valuable contributions, continued commitment, and enduring partnership.

Strategic areas

The Strategic Plan for 2025–2029 outlines five core strategic result areas that will shape the direction of KI’s work in the coming years. These include transformative governance, which focuses on improving governance through promoting constitutionalism, the rule of law, integrity, and accountability; and protecting rights and fundamental freedoms, aimed at enhancing public participation, increasing equality and inclusion, and advocating for policy and institutional reforms. The third area addresses environmental justice, natural resources governance, and climate action, intending to promote sustainable human and ecological well-being in the face of environmental challenges. The fourth area is centered on human rights in a digital world, reflecting KI’s commitment to protecting fundamental freedoms amidst the rapid evolution of digital technologies. Finally, the plan prioritises institutional development, strengthening KI’s internal systems and capacity to deliver on its mission effectively.

Speaking at the event, Nora Mbagathi, Katiba Institute’s Executive Director described the strategic plan as the result of deep reflection, honest assessment, and collaborative visioning. “This plan is not just a roadmap for the next five years—it is a reaffirmation of our values, a readjustment of our priorities, and a renewed commitment to constitutionalism in the region,” she said. She highlighted that the strategy emerged from a rigorous co-creation process involving the Board, staff, stakeholders, and partners, many of whom were present at the launch. 

In implementing this strategy, Katiba Institute will continue to employ a range of approaches that have defined its work over the years. These include strategic litigation, research and publications, civic education, constitutional activism, capacity building, and the development of strategic partnerships. A key innovation in the new strategy is its systems-oriented approach, which is designed to achieve sustainable, long-term change through multi-level and collaborative interventions.

Reflections from the organisation’s partners reinforced the significance of collaboration in advancing constitutionalism. Victor Bwire, Director for Media Training and Development at the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), emphasised the need to strengthen ties between the media and civil society. He noted that the media frequently relies on insights from civil society organisations like KI to surface issues of public interest. Nerima Wako, Executive Director of Siasa Place, also commended KI for the milestone, reiterating her organisation’s commitment to continued collaboration.

Christine Kuria, KI’s Deputy Executive Director, presented the strategic plan to participants, offering a detailed overview of the key focus areas and proposed interventions. She underscored the organisation’s commitment to inclusive and values-driven implementation.

The strategic plan will be guided by five core values that define KI’s identity and operational ethos. These include social justice, which emphasises impartial access to rights, resources, and opportunities; integrity, which reflects a commitment to truthfulness, openness, and accountability; and inclusion, which upholds diversity and equity. The organisation also prioritises human dignity, affirming the inherent worth of every individual, and professionalism, which speaks to KI’s dedication to excellence and continuous improvement.

Katiba Institute’s Strategic Plan 2025–2029 marks a significant milestone in its journey to promote constitutional governance, defend human rights, and build an informed and engaged society.

Download the Katiba Institute’s 2025-2029 Strategic Plan here