NCIC and IEBC launched the civic education programme at KICC in Nairobi.
The two commissions join faith-based organisations to promote responsible citizenship, counter misinformation and encourage peaceful electoral participation.
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) have launched a civic education drive ahead of Kenya’s 2027 General Election. The programme aims to counter hate speech and misinformation while encouraging citizens to participate peacefully.
The commissions launched the initiative at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi. Partners include the Evangelical Alliance of Kenya and the Kenya National Prayer and Transformation Movement.
Together, the institutions seek to help citizens understand their rights and responsibilities as preparations for the next election gather pace.
Civic education drive targets grassroots communities
The programme carries the theme “My Country, My Responsibility” and aims to reach communities at the grassroots. It combines civic and voter education to encourage peaceful participation in democratic processes.
NCIC Chairperson Bishop Dr Kepha Nyamweya Omae stressed the importance of informed citizens in building national cohesion. He also linked public awareness to responsible leadership and peaceful elections.
In a statement, NCIC said Omae urged Kenyans to check information before passing it on. He also called on citizens to reject hate speech and misinformation, use their rights responsibly and hold leaders accountable.
Constitutional awareness and peaceful participation
Meanwhile, IEBC Commissioner Dr Alutalala Mukhwana represented commission chairperson Erastus Ethekon at the launch. Mukhwana highlighted civic and voter education as important tools for strengthening constitutional awareness and public participation.
The partnership also brings faith-based organisations into a joint effort with the electoral and cohesion commissions. Its goals include responsible citizenship and inclusive participation in the electoral process.
Beyond awareness of voting rights, the programme addresses political responsibility and the dangers of inflammatory communication. These priorities form part of its push for peaceful democratic participation ahead of the 2027 polls.
NCIC also reaffirmed its commitment to working with faith-based organisations and other stakeholders. The commission said those partnerships would support national cohesion and peaceful participation in the elections.
