RPS 2026 is a one-year programme focused on the pre-election period. It builds on the progress and lessons from the earlier RPS programme implemented between 2021 and 2025, strengthening what has worked and reinforcing partnerships already in place. The project is funded by the Embassy of Denmark.
The RPS project works to prevent election-related violence and strengthen trust in Kenya’s electoral processes. It brings together communities, civil society, and key public institutions to promote peaceful, transparent, and inclusive elections. RPS focuses on four main areas.
1). It counters misinformation, hate speech, and online incitement by building digital literacy and responsible civic engagement among youth, women, journalists, and civil society.
2). It strengthens coordination between electoral institutions, peace structures, and security actors to improve early warning and timely response to emerging tensions.
3). It promotes open dialogue between communities and institutions such as IEBC and NCIC to build trust and accountability AND
4). It expands opportunities for youth and women to participate meaningfully in political processes and encourages public commitments to non-violence by political leaders.
The engagement Objective is to decrease in violent extremism and political and natural resource-based conflicts.
The target counties are; Samburu, Laikipia, Nakuru, Baringo, Kisumu and Nairobi.
1. Counter digital drivers of conflict – support youth, women, and civil society to address misinformation, hate speech, and online incitement through digital literacy and civic education, reducing polarisation and safeguarding social cohesion.
2. Strengthen systems and collaboration – reinforce partnerships between state institutions, civil society, and communities to promote transparency, accountability, and conflict-sensitive governance.
3. Enhance early warning and response – improve coordination among electoral and peace actors, strengthening early warning systems and enabling timely mediation (Rapid Response Funds/initiatives) at national and county levels.
4. Promote inclusive participation – expand platforms for youth and women to engage with state institutions and political actors, fostering peaceful political participation, citizen voice, and trust as foundations for lasting peace.
High-level Outcome: Decrease in violent extremism and political and natural resource-based conflicts.
Outcome 1: Enhanced cooperation and trust between communities and government agencies (especially the police and electoral bodies) based on respect for human rights and good governance.
Outcome 2: Enhanced Relations between Groups and Communities affected by conflict (Inter-ethnic, Intra ethnic, other conflictual in-groups and out-groups)
