Fresh from marking the International Day for Universal Access to Information, where a strong call was made for public entities to disclose information proactively, the Katiba Institute (KI) team was in Maralal, Samburu County, from 6 to 9 October 2025. The visit aimed to train county officials on access to information and to engage the community on the progress and impact of the project two years later.

On 6 October, the team held a training session for Samburu County Government officials focusing on proactive disclosure of information and the legal obligations set out in the Access to Information Act. The session emphasised the duty of public institutions to make information available without waiting for requests—not only to enable meaningful citizen participation but also to strengthen transparency and accountability in governance. Participants appreciated the training, noting that it helped them better understand citizens’ rights to information and their responsibilities as duty bearers when handling information requests.

Before the community engagement, on 7 October, the team hosted a focus group discussion with ten participants, mainly representatives of local community groups. The discussion provided space to reflect on milestones achieved through the project in Samburu. Participants highlighted several key gains, including increased awareness of citizens’ roles in governance, improved confidence in holding public entities accountable, and greater use of information requests to influence decisions affecting their lives.

On 8 October, the team met with community representatives who have been part of the access to information project since its inception. The meeting offered a valuable opportunity to review the progress in empowering communities to exercise their right to information. It was encouraging to see participants demonstrate a clear understanding of the Access to Information law, including their right under Article 35 of the Constitution to seek information and the corresponding obligations of public entities to disclose or respond appropriately.

Such focus group discussions are invaluable for communities. They create a space for open dialogue, enabling qualitative insights and diverse perspectives. They also foster shared understanding and collective reflection, allowing community members to naturally explore their experiences and attitudes. This participatory approach informs effective project design and implementation and strengthens the foundation for sustained citizen engagement and accountability in local governance.