The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) in partnership with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), conducted a series of Transgenerational Conversations to foster inclusive Governance and Accountability in the informal settlements of Nairobi. The Conversations took place from Monday, 8^th of September to Wednesday, 10^th of September 2025 in Kangemi, Kawangware and Kibera respectively.

The forums were graced by NCIC Chairman Rev. Dr. Samuel Kobia, Vice Chairperson, Hon. Dr. Dorcas Kedogo, Commissioner Hon. Abdulaziz Farah Director Research and Knowledge Management Ms. Millicent Okatch, County Government officials among other officials. The Transgenerational Dialogue Initiative was launched in the wake of social unrest driven primarily by Gen Z, leading to an urgent necessity for structured dialogue between generations to foster peace and understanding.

Speaking at the forum, NCIC Chairman Rev. Dr. Samuel Kobia called on the youth to participate constructively in national discourse. “I want to assure the gathered residents, especially the passionate young GenZ voices, that NCIC has come not to provoke but to listen, we are creating a space of safety, promising that every opinion is welcome without fear of punishment, so long as it steered clear of hate”.

NCIC Chairman Rev. Dr. Samuel Kobia addresses the participants of the transgenerational conversations forum held at CFK Hall in Kibra on 10^th, September 2025.

NCIC Commissioner Hon. Abdulaziz Farah, addressed the government's urgent need to initiate change for the youth. He emphasized that young people are demanding tangible improvements to their welfare economically, politically, and socially. They are no longer satisfied with promises but want to see results.

To meet this demand, the Commissioner proposed a clear solution, to bring all key institutions under one unified recruitment roof. This consolidated system, he argued, would ensure a fair and transparent process where employment is based on merit, guaranteeing that the best candidate is always selected for the job.

Assistant County Commissioner Ms. Hellen Manyonyi who represented national government, made a passionate call for civic engagement. She urged residents to actively attend public Barazas and participation forums, reminding them that "the power belongs to the people" and that fulfilling this civic duty is crucial for good governance.

Ms. Hellen Manyonyi, Assistant County Commissioner Speaking during the Transgenerational Conversations in Kawangware on 9^th September, 2025

NCIC Vice Chairperson Hon. Dorcas Kedogo alongside other participants during the Transgenerational conversation forum held at Kangemi Social  Hall in Kangemi, on 8^th September 2025. 

A GenZ representative, highlighted the deep-seated mistrust that discourages many young people from attending public forums, fueled by a fear that their voices are not taken seriously. She pointed to a prevailing sense that the government does not listen to youth, nor does it implement their ideas, leading to widespread disengagement.

She also addressed gender inequality, stressing that women often lack respect and opportunities. She called for greater investment in educating and empowering women, emphasizing that involving women in development matters is essential, as they urgently need more exposure and inclusion.

The message echoed was clear, the future won't be given, it must be built with voice, with action, and with an unwavering demand for a seat at the table.

In a landmark effort to promote peaceful coexistence and social integration, the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) hosted a week-long series of consultative forums from May 27th to 31st, 2025, in Kakuma, Turkana County. The initiative brought together political leaders, humanitarian agencies, host communities, and refugee representatives to address long-standing challenges and chart a path toward sustainable peace.

Held across five days, each forum focused on a specific constituency or stakeholder group, allowing for targeted discussions and inclusive participation. Political leaders—including Members of County Assembly (MCAs) and Ward Administrators—joined representatives from organizations such as UNHCR, RCK, World Vision, DRS, Don Bosco, Peace Wind Japan, and Windle International. The forums also welcomed youth, women, elders, and leaders from both host and refugee communities.

The event kicked off with a courtesy visit by NCIC Commissioner Hon. Abdul Aziz Ali Farah to UNHCR Kakuma Sub-office Head Mr. Nanduri Sateesh, reaffirming NCIC’s commitment to collaboration with humanitarian partners. Throughout the week, discussions tackled critical issues such as unequal access to resources, marginalization, land disputes, and lack of representation—barriers that have historically strained relations between host and refugee populations.

One of the critical sessions was the meeting with the hosting community, where residents voiced their concerns and learned about NCIC’s upcoming two-year integration programme. Similarly, the final day’s dialogue with refugee representatives provided firsthand insights into the root causes of conflict and the challenges of maintaining peace in Kakuma.

Commissioner Farah emphasized that peace is not only a constitutional imperative but also a cornerstone of sustainable development. “We must walk together in this journey of peacebuilding,” he urged, calling for shared responsibility and stronger partnerships.

The forums yielded several key outcomes: enhanced understanding between stakeholders, renewed commitment to social integration, and the foundation for future programs tailored to the unique needs of Kakuma’s diverse population. NCIC’s Deputy Director of Peacebuilding and Reconciliation Mr Liban Guyo reinforced the Commission’s mandate to eliminate ethnic discrimination and hate speech, and to foster unity.

This initiative marks a significant step toward building one Kenya—where diversity is embraced, voices are heard, and communities thrive together in peace.

NCIC Commissioner Hon. Abdulaziz Farah making the opening remarks during the Peace Forums in Kakuma, Turkana County

Marsabit County played host to the inaugural Transgenerational Conversations Townhall Forum on Thursday, July 24, 2025—an initiative spearheaded by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) in partnership with the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), and supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

The forum brought together youth, elders, religious leaders, and community stakeholders for a candid exchange of ideas aimed at strengthening governance, accountability, and social cohesion in Kenya. Marsabit, a region often marked by cycles of conflict driven by political competition, ethnic tensions, and resource disputes, served as a symbolic and strategic location for this dialogue.

Welcoming participants, Deputy County Commissioner Mr. David Saruni underscored the importance of such engagements, particularly in a county with a predominantly youthful population. The town hall addressed pressing issues including youth unemployment, insecurity, and inter-community tensions.

NCIC Commissioner Dr. Makori pointed to last year’s Gen-Z-led protests over the finance bill as a reflection of youth exclusion in policymaking. “It is important that we have people-led conversations as we conduct this live show—the audience has a lot to table,” he said.

Stephen Roba shared his efforts to establish a youth employment welfare centre in collaboration with the county government, while Farida Mohamed highlighted that over 60% of Marsabit’s population comprises unemployed youth under 25—a factor fuelling ethnic divisions and clan-based incitement. She urged young people to explore digital opportunities beyond traditional employment. Sheikh Mohamed Kuli reminded parents of their role in shaping future leaders, saying, “Let us remember to set a good example for these children.”

Panelists during the TransGenerational conversations in Marsabit County 

The Chairman National Cohesion and Integration Commission

Dr. Rev.   Samuel Kobia, Commission’s CEO/Secretary Dr. Mutegi

Giti and World Vision’s Dr. Festus Mukoya at the NCIC’s headquarters

in Nairobi

In line with its core mandate to promote national cohesion and integration, the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), led by its Chairman Rev. Dr. Samuel Kobia CBS, held a high-level consultative meeting today, 17^th April 2025, with Dr. Festus Mukoya from World Vision at the NCIC headquarters, Britam Towers.

The meeting accentuated NCIC’s unwavering commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence and unity among all Kenyans. Through strategic partnerships like this one, NCIC seeks to advance its mission of preventing ethnic discrimination and promoting harmonious relationships across communities.

Speaking at the meeting, NCIC Commission Secretary Dr. Daniel Mutegi Giti lauded World Vision for its readiness to collaborate in efforts that align with the Commission’s peacebuilding agenda. He emphasized that such partnerships are instrumental in realizing NCIC’s vision of a cohesive and integrated Kenyan society. As part of its ongoing efforts, NCIC continues to champion inclusive, multisectoral collaboration as a fundamental pillar in driving sustainable peace and national unity.