Tissues that Connect People | News Articles

News | 26-04-2023 | 08:00

Dutch civil society is strong. It is an organization that brings people together. It is a true expression of what we stand for and what we hold dear most, what unites and divides us. But for the most part it is what gives life to many sports clubs, cultural centers and debate centers. It brings people together, regardless of gender. It is not the domain of nations, but the world of volunteers who collectively create, help and interact.

Each March, special inspiration is provided by the Royal Family, who serve as standard bearers for volunteer projects. It shows what our royal family stands for. It is about being part of society, contributing, helping each other with respect and working hand in hand for the common good. It is this principle that makes the King’s Birthday a national celebration of unity and equality.

Why am I sharing this with you? I will say a few words about this particular aspect of Holland, but for such forces inherent in society to come to fruition, space, clarity and structure are essential. To emphasize the need. And, of course, that’s where government comes into play. What space does government give to such intrinsic forces? This is a fundamental question answered by a constitution that defines the interactions between society, government, and the private sector.

Kenya’s constitution is strong and progressive. However, the actual regulation of social organization is still scattered. The Public Interest Institutions Act has not been operational since his 2013, but by clarifying freedoms, responsibilities and financing, it is possible to mobilize social forces to make valuable contributions, diversify, innovate and dialogue. , can be compromised. A factor that governments can never replace.

The Netherlands recently strategy course For engaging Kenya with the vision of strengthening and deepening the mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries and contributing to Kenya’s sustainable and inclusive development. Civil society has a key role to play in this journey. They bring people’s voices and needs to the fore and hold those in charge accountable.

In this, we pay particular attention to reducing inequalities and including those who are being left behind. Take the example of young people. Informal age barriers and codes of conduct often prevent young people from engaging in political and economic activities. Age groups are becoming silos, and moving from one silo to the other has proven particularly difficult, leaving little to no room for engagement and influence.

Civil society can break down barriers, foster dialogue, and open up spaces to connect older and younger people, people of different genders and ethnicities. Living together requires understanding, which must be fostered in society.

President William Ruto has pledged to operationalize the country’s 2013 PBO law and expand the forum for cooperation between the government and civil society. I hope the government will act accordingly to create room for civil society, to allow for different opinions and ways of life, and to build cohesion from within society. I hope that all these contributions to Kenyan society, whatever their origin, will soon be celebrated, as in the Netherlands. To celebrate everyone’s pride in being Kenyan.