This is an update for my dedicated readers on www.kerosi.com blog. A platform for positive social change and sharing of transformative ideas.
Since November 2019 I have been working in promoting the participation of minority groups and indigenous communities in development in both Kenya and Ethiopia. We believe that the capacity of these groups of people should be strengthened to an extent that they are able to effectively speak on their own behalf.
Minority groups and indigenous communities in East Africa and in the rest of the world are mostly not well represented in the economy and in politics. In fact, there are communities in East Africa who are not represented in politics. For example, the Maragoli of Uganda or the Wayyu of Kenya. Others like the Ogiek of Nakuru are represented by nominated Members of County Assembly. Katiba Institute of Kenya has published a well-researched paper on this matter.
A few weeks ago when I visited Uganda and met representatives of groups such as the Benet, Batwa and Basongora among others. I encouraged them to ensure their capacity is strengthened in order to effectively participate in policy making processes.
For the next four years or so we shall be supporting these groups of people to ensure that they are not left behind in development. We will strengthen their capacity, provide platforms for them through dialogue forums and make available to them opportunities to share their success stories, challenges and lessons with others at the county level, national level, regional level and international foras. Soon you will see and hear from them more often on issues such as Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Vision 2030 in Kenya, Vision 2040 in Uganda and Africa Vision 2063 among other plans.
I believe that if we work together, we can provide a voice for the voiceless and hence development will reach the furthest corners of East Africa.
I will keep you posted on these matters from time to time and where necessary I shall call upon your participation in the fight against inequality and discrimination.
Be on the lookout on this blog!!!
