KENYA'S CIVIL SOCIETY: A CATALYST FOR NATIONAL INTEGRATION
Authors: Mary Naserian Kipkoech, John Kibet Ndemo, Grace Makena Ondari
Published: June 2024
Abstract
<p>National integration is a fundamental imperative for a nation's longevity and cohesiveness. It encompasses the process of fostering unity, stability, prosperity, strength, and a shared sense of national identity. Furthermore, it is instrumental in ensuring equitable welfare provisions and mitigating social inequalities and divisions. National integration acts as a unifying force, forging strong bonds among individuals from diverse backgrounds and beliefs, bridging ideological, ethnic, religious, and cultural divides. The establishment of a common national identity plays a pivotal role in fostering national cohesion. However, it is essential that the integration process is people-oriented rather than authoritative. In this context, the rise of civil society organizations (CSOs) in Kenya has become a transformative force, significantly impacting the political, social, and economic landscape. These CSOs have assumed crucial roles in development, both locally and internationally. While the emphasis on civil society endeavors to transcend external regulations and highlights the grassroots contributions to peace-building, international involvement often results in dependency rather than fostering open and democratic civil society. This approach, which neglects structural issues, can impede the nation's progress and hinder the formation of a robust, inclusive civil society.</p>
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