Eastern Africa

Events

8 November 2012

50 Years of Change in Eastern Africa

The Ford Foundation marks its 50th anniversary in Eastern Africa with a series of dialogues and events highlighting efforts to deepen democracy, build greater inclusion and expand opportunity throughout the region. Joined by regional office staff—including Maurice Makoloo, representative in Eastern Africa—and other officials, the foundation’s president, Luis A. Ubiñas, will take part in the celebration in Nairobi.

To view captions for each photo, click the full screen icon, then "Show Info" in the top right corner.

Held between Nov. 12 and 14, the anniversary celebration includes an interactive dialogue about Kenya’s future and an awards ceremony to honor ten Champions of Democracy working on the frontlines of social change throughout the region.

The foundation has provided some $300 million since 1962 to support East Africans striving to advance democracy, fairness, opportunity and rights for all people.

Fulfilling the Promise of Democracy in Kenya: A Public Lecture with Luis A. Ubiñas

Monday, November 12, 2012, 2:15 – 5:30 p.m.

Julie Gichuru, host of “Sunday Live with Julie Gichuru,” will engage Luis A. Ubiñas in a wide-ranging discussion about changes and challenges in the region over the past five decades and the foundation’s continuing efforts to deepen democracy and expand opportunities for all. A reception will follow at the University of Nairobi Chancellor’s Parlor.

Watch the public lecture on Citizen TV.

Follow @FordFoundation conversation with hashtag #FordEAfrica50

Celebrating 50 Years in Kenya and Eastern Africa: The Champions of Democracy Awards and Luncheon

Tuesday, November 13, 2012, 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

The foundation will announce the winners of the Champions of Democracy Awards at a special event held at the Safari Park Hotel, attended by President Ubiñas, dignitaries and regional grantees. Caroline Mutoko of Nairobi’s Kiss 100 FM (Radio Africa) and host of the morning program “The Big Breakfast” will emcee.

Read the press release about the awards.

About the Award Winners

Portrait	Name	Title and Address
	Akili Dada	Mentors young women from disadvantaged backgrounds to drive transformative change in their communities. Wanjiru Kamau Rutenberg, founder and executive director (pictured)
	The GoDown Arts Centre	Strengthens connections between artists and audiences while inspiring open-minded dialogues about local and national issues. Joy Mboya, executive director
	Go-Sheng Services	Uses technology to promote civic engagement among low-income urban youth, particularly through the popular language of Sheng. Kelvin Okoth, executive officer
	Kenya Human Rights Commission	Protects civil, political rights of Kenyans; works to ensure democratic governance set forth in the 2010 constitution is realized. Atsango Chesoni, executive director
	Kenya Land Alliance (KLA)	Establishes a vibrant national land network whose mission is to make Kenya’s resources accessible to all its citizens. Odenda Lumumba, national coordinator
	Kenya Women Holding	Develops financial services that meet the needs of poor, rural women; coordinates Tuvuke Initiative to promote Kenyan democracy. Jennifer Riria, group chief executive officer.
	Media Development in Africa (MEDEVA)	Creates spaces for civic engagement on television and radio; cultivates next generation of ethical, critical journalists. Jason Nyantino, chief executive officer
	Men for the Equality of Men and Women (MEW)	Uses faith-based approach to help men become champions of women’s rights. Reverend Timothy Njoya, executive director
	Twaweza Communications	Facilitates national dialogue on ethnic tolerance and reconciliation and conversations between citizens about election experiences. Kimani Njogu, director
	The Youth Agenda (YAA)	Raises young people’s consciousness of key issues and helps them work toward holding leadership roles. Susan Kariuki, chief executive officer