Civic Governance & Youth Leadership
Deepening citizens' engagement in governance — from Isiolo to all 47 counties.
The Gap
Citizens Deserve Better Governance
In ASAL counties, civic participation is often low — not because communities don't care about governance, but because formal civic education structures never reach them. County development processes, public participation forums, and budget cycles are decided without meaningful community input.
Youth — who represent the majority of Kenya's population — are particularly excluded from governance processes, leaving a critical leadership gap and stoking grievances that often find expression in conflict rather than civic engagement.
ASREP's civic governance programme bridges this gap through accessible, community-based civic education and youth leadership development that meets people where they are.
Flagship: KSG Partnership
The “Under the Tree” Series
In partnership with the Kenya School of Government, ASREP developed and piloted the “Under the Tree” civic education format in Isiolo — interactive, community-based sessions held under trees, in community halls, and at watering points. The format proved so effective it was adopted for a 47-county national rollout.
1
Isiolo Pilot
47
National Rollout
KSG
National Partner
2025
Partnership Year
Youth Leadership
Building Tomorrow's Civic Leaders
Public Participation Training
Equipping youth with the knowledge and skills to engage meaningfully in county public participation forums, budget processes, and development planning.
Governance Literacy
Making governance accessible — explaining devolution, public finance, citizen rights, and accountability mechanisms in local languages and culturally resonant formats.
Youth Leadership Incubation
Identifying and mentoring emerging youth leaders from ASAL communities for careers in public service, civic society, and community leadership.
