EU Rolls Out Ksh500M Programme to Strengthen Kenyan Democracy

The European Union has launched a Ksh500 million programme to support democratic participation and address human rights challenges in Kenya.

Unveiled on 27 February, the initiative aims to fund civil society organisations working to promote citizens' rights and democratic processes. The programme, titled “Empowering Kenyan Citizens to Enjoy Political and Civic Rights”, invites eligible organisations to submit proposals by April 2025. It includes two distinct funding streams: Lot 1: Supporting Democratic Participation and Lot 2: Addressing Urgent Human Rights Challenges.

Lot 1, with a budget of Ksh306 million, focuses on strengthening civic space and encouraging public involvement in democratic processes, including electoral participation and access to credible information. The EU aims to enhance inclusivity, resilience, and transparency in Kenya’s political culture.

Lot 2, which has Ksh206 million in funding, targets urgent human rights concerns, particularly violations and the protection of vulnerable groups such as women, youth, children, and at-risk persons. This funding will support initiatives that document rights violations and advocate for the rights of marginalised communities.

Organisations must submit applications through the EU’s Prospect system and register on the Partner Data Online Registration (PADOR) platform. Detailed application guidelines have been provided, with a final submission deadline set for April 2026.