The 2024 People Dialogue Festival continued to build on the positive momentum from day one. Day 2 of PDF2024 was a dynamic and vibrant affair, brimming with energy and featuring a diverse array of events spanning over 20 conversations and activities across the six PDF Villages. With an impressive turnout of over 2,000 participants, the Festival remained steadfast in its mission to foster meaningful inclusion and promote robust public dialogue. Notable political figures such as H.E Hon. Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, and Babu Owino were a huge attraction for those in attendance.
The expectations around Hon. Kalonzo and Hon. Eugene’s address on the necessary political reforms required to ensure the realisation of economic and social rights, as well as expected commentary on the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) Report and next steps prompted the merger of the Political Village and the Hekima Village to accommodate the popular demand by participants.
The panel noted the declining standing of Kenya among the diplomatic community of nations due to problematic foreign policy approaches, the contentious issues of boundaries delimitation and the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). The session prompted reflections on both the opportunities presented by this process and the potential for conflicts due to the sensitivity of the matter. Participants contributed valuable insights and proposed strategies aimed at ensuring the reconstitution of an impartial and trustworthy IEBC.
Throughout the day, the SDGs Village underscored the pressing need to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the next six years. Hon. Babu Owino delivered a keynote speech at the village, emphasising the necessity for a collaborative approach in combating climate change through policy influence and forward-thinking leadership. The panel highlighted innovative programs like the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action Program as crucial in this endeavour.
Other key sessions at the SDGs Village delved into innovative financing mechanisms such as public private partnerships, bonds, and diaspora remittances to address financing challenges hindering SDG delivery. Participants heard of and lauded Denmark’s partnership approach that strives to align development aid with Kenya’s priorities, and the need for a strong civil society to ensure mutual accountability.
At the Ni Sisi Ni Sasa village dedicated to young persons in high schools, the participants engaged in spirited dialogue on various topics including the constitution, governance, equitable resource allocation, and our shared democratic futures. The sessions showcased the eager participation of young individuals, demonstrating their keen interest in taking on leadership roles and engaging in substantive political discourse. Additionally, both Hon. Kalonzo Musyoka and Hon. Eugene Wamalwa responded to tough tackles from the young leaders on a variety of topical issues, including their (leaders’) perceptions on the role of the youth in politics, successions and what the leaders are doing to expand fair access to opportunities for all Kenyan youth.
In the vibrant atmosphere of the Youth Village, a whirlwind of empowerment and enlightenment swept through as key conversations unfolded regarding young people’s access to decent work. The sessions shed light on the myriad obstacles that hinder education and job opportunities for youth of all backgrounds, including those differently abled. Discussions on skills development highlighted the challenges faced by young individuals in acquiring relevant skills that align with the demands of the job market. Young peoples also emphasised the need for market linkages and mentorship programs to support budding entrepreneurs and facilitate their growth.
Overall, the conversations underscored the fact that promoting inclusivity in all its facets requires a collective effort in reshaping dominant societal attitudes about equity and equality, work, gender, age, and agency.
As PDF2024 enters its penultimate Day 3 on Friday, a buffet of exciting dialogues await, in celebration and in solidarity with the International Women’s Day whose 2024 theme is ‘Inspire Inclusion.’ Several sessions will spotlight and centre women’s voices, agency, energies and legacies in Kenya’s journey towards a more equal and democratic society.
With sessions hosted by women-led and women-serving organisations such as Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA), Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA) and with panellists in the feminist movement including the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) and the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), it is anticipated that on this Day 3, a synthesis of the vibrant spirit of the PDF2024 and the rich legacy and impact of Kenyan women’s work over the years will deliver a memorable day for all champions of equality and non-discrimination.