Publications

Kenya’s Structural Reckoning

Social Protest or Social Control?

Social protest or social control? Saba Saba, remembered for the historic nationwide protests of July 7, 1990, marked a turning point in Kenya’s struggle for multiparty democracy. Today, Kenyans once again take to the streets—commemorating that legacy and demanding accountability, good governance, and the rule of law. Palpable tensions remain high following the protests on the 25th of Jule 2025, which gained international attention. Coincidentally, this year’s demonstrations commemorated the anniversary of last year’s infamous Finance Bill protests, which lit the flame of demonstrations by proposing largely unpopular and tax hikes. Anger, resentment and uncertainty with the government still lingers, as the country braces itself for the anticipated protests to peak on Monday, the 7th of July, marking the historic 1990 Saba Saba protests for democratic reforms.

Kenya and Sudan Fallout

Unpacking the Kenya-Sudan Diplomatic Rift

Kenya and Sudan have shared a symbiotic relationship over the years. However, things have quickly changed recently due to Kenya’s controversial decision to host the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) leaders in Nairobi. This decision put Kenya’s impartiality to question. Furthermore, due to this act Sudan has taken some retaliatory measures including calling back their ambassador and imposing a ban on Kenyan imported goods. This text unpacks the fallout between these two countries. It then highlights the impact on Kenya’s reputation due to the RSF engagement such as loss of credibility as a mediator, association to human rights abuse, loss of trust and economic loss. Lastly, the text provides recommendations on how Kenya and Sudan can get back to their previous symbiotic relationship.

Priorities & Incentives

Addressing Political, Economic, andInstitutional Barriers to AchieveEast African Monetary Unification

The study Priorities & Incentives by authors Laurence Jost, Doreen Amoit, Patrick Njeru, Edwin Adoga Ottichilo aims to investigate the political, economic, and institutional barriers obstructing the East African Community (EAC) from achieving its monetary unification goals under the East African Monetary Union (EAMU). The EAC, a Regional Economic Community comprising member states Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, missed its 2024 target for launching a unified currency. This failure prompted an analysis of the underlying challenges, focusing on the tension between the EAMU’s vision of the EAC as an optimal currency area and the region’s actual political and economic landscape.

The ‘win-win’ migration agreement between Germany and Kenya: Who actually benefits?

The political balancing act between demographic development and economic hardship

On 13 September 2024, Kenya and Germany signed a bilateral migration agreement. In it, Germany opens up legal channels for qualified labor migrants from Kenya. In return, Kenya agreed to identify its citizens who are required to leave Germany by means of biometric data comparison and to accept expired identity documents for repatriation. Kenya’s President Ruto praised the agreement a ‘win-win situation’, but who is the real winner of the agreement? Will the agreement find the right balance between the need for regulated labor migration and averting the loss of skilled labor in the country of origin?

Budget policy at a crossroads: How sustainable is Ruto's budget plan?

Will President Ruto's budget plan for 2025 ensure stability and avoid renewed protests?

The Kenyan government faces the challenge of ensuring economic stability and social justice through its 2025 budget. Tax increases and the associated rise in the cost of living, as well as rising debt, are putting a strain on the population and the economy. At the same time, investments in infrastructure, education and health are intended to promote growth, but it remains questionable whether these measures will be sufficient to reduce social inequalities. Another hurdle is corruption and economic mismanagement in the public sector. Inefficient allocation of funds and a lack of transparency in major projects undermine trust in the government. The burden of the high cost of living has already led to protest movements in the past. This paper analyses whether the planned reforms could lead to renewed nationwide unrest or whether they are the cornerstone of economic recovery.

Anthology - Country reports with a difference

International comparison of accessibility

This publication provides research, compiled by some of our overseas offices, on the current situation of political participation for people with disabilities, in their respective countries. We hope that their reports will increase awareness of the sadly often persistent inequalities that remain and motivate all of us to pay greater heed to the issue of inclusion.

Kenya's Geopolitics

Raila Odinga’s Loss at the African Union Commission’s Chairman Election

Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s loss in the 2025 African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship election, despite widespread endorsements, underscores the complexities of African geopolitics and regional alliances. Kenya’s failure to secure the AUC chair highlights the interplay of regional blocs, linguistic affiliations, and diplomatic manoeuvrings. The election’s outcome reshapes Kenya’s internal political landscape. Odinga’s return to domestic politics could challenge President Ruto’s administration, potentially rekindling op-position momentum and altering party alliances within the Azimio coalition and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

Call for expression of Interest

We are looking for for expressions of Interest for Audit Services on the Strengthening capacities of local Civil Society to fight Corruption: Tupigane na Ufisadi (TUNU) Project

The “win-win” migration agreement between Germany and Kenya: Who truly benefits

The political balancing act between demographic development and economic hardship

On 13 September 2024, Kenya and Germany signed a bilateral migration agreement. In it, Germany opens up legal channels for qualified labor migrants from Kenya. In return, Kenya agreed to identify its citizens who are required to leave Germany by means of biometric data comparison and to accept expired identity documents for repatriation. Kenya’s President Ruto praised the agreement a ‘win-win situation’, but who is the real winner of the agreement? Will the agreement find the right balance between the need for regulated labor migration and averting the loss of skilled labor in the country of origin?

Kenya’s security landscape

A case study of Kenya’s domestic and foreign political security actions

Kenya’s security landscape is increasingly defined by the persistence of ethno-political violence, the ongoing threat of terrorism, and its pivotal role in regional stability. The post-election violence underscores the enduring salience of ethnic divisions, necessitating comprehensive electoral and socioeconomic reforms. Al-Shabaab's sustained terrorist threat, despite military efforts, signals the need for more robust counterterrorism frameworks, balancing security with human rights. Internationally, Kenya’s maritime security, particularly in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean, is paramount for safeguarding trade routes vital to its economy. As Kenya navigates its complex security landscape, its ability to address internal and external threats will be crucial in maintaining its role as a stabilizing force in East Africa.