East Africa is one of the fastest growing regions in the world. But corruption is pervasive across social, economic and political systems, undermining democracy and deepening inequality across the region through its corrosion effects - from slowed economic growth to lack of access to healthcare and quality education.
In the face of growing public distrust and calls for greater accountability,
governments across the region are starting to acknowledge the need to tackle this rampant corruption.
Our work focuses on addressing systemic corruption by creating a healthy, robust civic space that ensures civil society can play a full and vital role in mediating public, private and government interests and ensuring the public recognizes its value. We support civil society actors who are calling for greater transparency and accountability. For example, in Kenya, we are bringing together civic groups to build a strong, effective advocacy network to help increase the impact of their work and, in Tanzania, we have helped strengthen the profile and reach of influential players. Across East Africa, we see particular promise in young people, particularly those between the ages 15 to 24, who make up 45 percent of the region’s population, as agents of change so we also support emerging youth organizations that are using technology to tackle corruption.
We also work to strengthen critical watchdog institutions such as the judiciary and major players at the intersection of national and sub-national government such as the East Africa Community, East African Court of Justice, the African Union, and the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
Strategy
Outcomes
Corruption becomes a top priority
East African governments at a national and regional level will place corruption and strengthening civic space among their top concerns, taking demonstrable actions and holding parties to account.
Strengthened Coalitions
In Kenya, a broad coalition of public actors, from youth activists to political leaders to public officials, will come together to engage the public around corruption and work toward greater responsiveness.
Expanded Civil Society
In East Africa, civil society actors will push back against existing and new forms of constraints on civic space, building a stronger, more effective civil sector.
Means of Defense
Social justice advocates will have more adequate and necessary resources and legal protections to defend themselves against potential attacks and challenges.