From Advocacy to Action: German Head of Development Cooperation Visits Pamoja for Transformation in Kisumu
Kisumu County
Peace and Governance
On October 7, 2026, Pamoja for Transformation was honored to host the German Head of Development Cooperation (GIZ) at our Kisumu offices. The visit aimed to deepen her understanding of our ongoing work under GIZ-funded initiatives, specifically the Civil Peace Service (CPS) and the Agri-jobs for Youth projects.
The engagement centered on the powerful impact of locally-led solutions, highlighting how community voices, when properly equipped, can drive sustainable governance and local development.
Empowering Peace Champions Through NVCT
A core focus of the visit was a meeting with Pamoja’s Peace Champions, dedicated local actors working to promote peace, good governance, accountability, and safety in their communities.
The champions highlighted the transformative impact of the Non-Violent Conflict Transformation (NVCT) training received under the CPS project. They noted that the training has significantly boosted their confidence, built community trust, and enhanced their capacity to facilitate community engagement forums and lead community-driven interventions.
Through non-violent advocacy with relevant duty-bearers, the Peace Champions have successfully translated community requirements into tangible public goods. Their efforts have contributed to several major local initiatives, including:
The ongoing construction of the Mbita-Awaya Bridge in Obunga.
The environmental cleanup of River Auji.
The installation of street lighting to improve public safety.
Improved service delivery at Nyalenda Health Services.
The development of the Kisumu Youth Policy.
Through their engagement with Pamoja, these champions have been built up as effective change agents who assist in settling conflicts, strengthening social cohesion, and fostering sustainable peace.
Addressing Youth Unemployment and Economic Empowerment Beyond peacebuilding, the Peace Champions used the platform to raise a pressing concern: youth unemployment. They called for stronger, more decisive action from the government and requested that their concerns be escalated to the relevant ministries.
The discussion also showcased the achievements of the Enhancing Women and Youth Access to Land for Sustainable Economic Development in Western Kenya project, implemented in collaboration with GFA under the Agri-jobs for Youth initiative. The project demonstrates the critical importance of secure land access in improving inclusive livelihoods and driving economic empowerment for vulnerable demographics.
Seeing Advocacy in Action The visit concluded with a field tour to the Mbita-Awaya Bridge in Obunga. Currently under construction following the direct interventions and advocacy of the Peace Champions from Kisumu Central, the bridge stands as a powerful, physical example of how sustained community advocacy can bring public concerns to the attention of duty-bearers and advance local development.
Our Continued Commitment Through our partnership with the Civil Peace Service (CPS), Pamoja for Transformation remains committed to strengthening community voices, promoting sustainable governance, and supporting locally-led solutions that enhance peace, inclusion, and sustainable development.
As demonstrated by this visit, our core belief remains true: When community-led partnerships thrive, advocacy translates into action, and lasting change becomes viable.
