UoN, WFD host Public Dialogue on Kenya’s Democratic Future

The University of Nairobi (UoN), in partnership with the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD), on Tuesday, 15 September 2026, convened a public dialogue to reflect on Kenya’s democratic journey and explore approaches to strengthening the country’s democratic future.

Held at the University of Nairobi on 15th September, 2026 to mark the 2026 International Day of Democracy, the dialogue was themed, “Democracy Under Strain, Futures in Focus: Advancing Anticipatory Governance and Citizen-Centred Solutions for a Changing Nation.”

The forum brought together stakeholders from government, political parties, civil society, academia, youth, the media and other sectors to examine emerging pressures facing Kenya’s democracy and discuss practical approaches to building democratic resilience.

Speaking during the dialogue, UoN Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Human Resource and Administration), Prof. Leonida Kerubo, underscored the role of universities in fostering informed citizenship, research and constructive public discourse on democratic governance.Shehighlighted the importance of academic institutions in providing evidence-based perspectives and creating platforms for diverse voices to engage on issues shaping Kenya’s democratic future.

The Chairperson, Department of Political Science and Public Administration, Dr Oscar Otele emphasised the need for continued scholarly engagement with Kenya’s democratic institutions and governance processes, particularly through approaches that anticipate emerging challenges.

Hon. Winnie Odinga called for greater attention to the experiences and aspirations of young people in shaping Kenya’s democratic future. She emphasised the importance of meaningful youth participation and ensuring that democratic processes remain responsive to citizens’ needs.

A key focus of the dialogue was the role of anticipatory governance and strategic foresight in enabling institutions and citizens to identify emerging challenges, prepare for future scenarios and develop timely responses to a changing national environment.

Participants also underscored the importance of placing citizens at the centre of democratic processes, with inclusive participation, responsive institutions and meaningful engagement identified as essential to strengthening public trust and democratic resilience.

The dialogue provided a platform for stakeholders to reflect on the kind of democracy Kenya seeks to build for future generations and the measures required to make democratic governance more inclusive, responsive and resilient.