Deadline: 04-May-2026
Act Change Transform (Act!) is inviting Kenyan civil society organisations to submit Expressions of Interest (EoIs) under the REDI Programme to strengthen democratic participation and electoral inclusion. The initiative focuses on peacebuilding, governance, and climate resilience. Eligible applicants must be registered in Kenya and demonstrate strong community engagement.
Overview
Act Change Transform (Act!) is implementing the Reformed Elections for Enhanced Democracy and Inclusion (REDI) Programme with support from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) through the Embassy of Sweden in Kenya.
The programme aims to strengthen democratic systems, promote inclusive governance, and enhance community participation in electoral processes across Kenya.
Programme Objectives
The REDI Programme seeks to:
- Improve electoral integrity and inclusiveness
- Strengthen citizen participation in governance
- Promote peaceful and conflict-sensitive elections
- Support sustainable and climate-resilient development
Core Focus Areas
1. Peacebuilding and Conflict Transformation
- Prevent and mitigate electoral-related conflicts
- Promote dialogue and reconciliation
- Strengthen community resilience during elections
2. Inclusive and Accountable Governance
- Enhance citizen participation in decision-making
- Promote transparency and accountability
- Strengthen democratic institutions
3. Environment and Climate Governance
- Address climate-related challenges
- Promote sustainable natural resource management
- Integrate environmental considerations into governance
About the REDI Programme
The REDI Programme builds on broader development priorities supported by Sida in Kenya, including:
- Democratic development and human rights
- Gender equality and inclusion
- Climate resilience and environmental protection
- Inclusive economic development
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- National and sub-national civil society organisations (CSOs)
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
- Community-based organisations (CBOs)
- Local non-profit entities
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be registered or domiciled in Kenya
- Operate at national or county level
- Demonstrate experience in governance, elections, or community development
For County-Based Organisations
- Must show strong grassroots presence
- Ongoing community initiatives
- Experience addressing electoral conflicts or improving electoral outcomes
What Type of Projects Are Expected?
Proposed projects should:
- Align with REDI Programme focus areas
- Demonstrate innovation and feasibility
- Address electoral inclusion, governance, or conflict issues
- Show clear community impact
- Contribute to long-term democratic development
How the EoI Process Works
Step-by-Step Process
- Review Programme Priorities
- Align your concept with REDI focus areas
- Develop Concept Note
- Outline objectives, approach, and expected impact
- Submit Expression of Interest
- Provide organisational and project details
- Shortlisting Process
- Selected applicants may be invited for full proposals
Important Notes
- This is an Expression of Interest (EoI), not a full grant application
- Submission does not guarantee funding
- Applicants bear all proposal preparation costs
- Act! may not provide feedback on unsuccessful applications
Why This Programme Matters
- Strengthens democratic governance in Kenya
- Promotes peaceful and inclusive elections
- Empowers local communities and civil society
- Supports climate and sustainability integration
- Enhances citizen engagement in public decision-making
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting vague or unclear project ideas
- Weak alignment with REDI focus areas
- Lack of demonstrated community impact
- Insufficient organisational capacity or experience
- Ignoring grassroots engagement requirements
Tips for a Strong EoI
- Clearly define the problem and proposed solution
- Show evidence of community need and impact
- Highlight past experience and success stories
- Align with both governance and inclusion goals
- Keep the proposal concise and results-oriented
FAQs
1. Who can apply for the REDI Programme EoI?
Registered civil society organisations in Kenya, including NGOs and community-based organisations.
2. Is this a full funding application?
No, it is an Expression of Interest. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to submit full proposals.
3. What are the main focus areas?
Peacebuilding, inclusive governance, and climate/environmental governance.
4. Are county-level organisations eligible?
Yes, provided they demonstrate strong local presence and community engagement.
5. Is funding guaranteed after submission?
No, submission of an EoI does not guarantee funding.
6. Will feedback be provided to unsuccessful applicants?
Not necessarily, as Act! may choose not to provide feedback.
7. What type of projects are preferred?
Innovative, community-driven projects that improve electoral processes and inclusion.
Conclusion
The REDI Programme offers an important opportunity for Kenyan civil society organisations to contribute to stronger democratic systems and inclusive governance. By focusing on peacebuilding, participation, and sustainability, the initiative aims to create lasting impact in electoral processes and community development across Kenya.
For more information, visit Act Change Transform.