Community Empowerment and Development Centre

30/04/2026

CEDC just concluded a series of ward forums in Funyula, Mungatsi, Amagoro, and Simbachai, creating a platform for community dialogue on voter registration, civic education, and citizen participation in governance. The forums brought together diverse voices to reflect on the electoral process and its direct link to leadership, accountability, and service delivery.
One of the key issues that stood out across the discussions was the continued exclusion of Persons with Disabilities in voter registration, voting processes, and access to civic education. Participants emphasized the need for intentional efforts to ensure electoral processes are inclusive, accessible, and responsive to the needs of all citizens, regardless of ability.
The forums also highlighted the connection between voter registration and service delivery, with discussions noting that choosing not to register as a voter can limit citizens’ influence in leadership selection and weaken their collective voice in demanding accountability and equitable development. The message remained clear—active and inclusive participation in electoral processes is essential in shaping communities and strengthening governance.

23/04/2026

The day is here! Join us today at 8:00 PM for an engaging Voter Sensitization Forum on X Space. This is a great opportunity to be part of a meaningful conversation on informed voting and the role each of us plays in shaping the future of our communities.
The session is open to everyone, especially young people and first-time voters, and offers a space to learn, reflect, and engage on how our voices can influence leadership, accountability, and development.
Don’t miss out—be part of the conversation.
Join here: https://x.com/i/spaces/1YxNrZznWLwxw

22/04/2026

CEDC held impactful ward-level dialogues in Butula, Matayos, and Samia, engaging communities on voter registration, electoral processes, and the role citizens play in governance. These were held amidst the ongoing mass voter registration by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), set to end on the 28th.
The message was clear,registering as a voter is a key step in shaping leadership and strengthening democracy. Encouragingly, some participants took immediate action and registered as voters during the sessions. Conversations also highlighted the importance of holding leaders accountable, with citizens encouraged to actively participate through informed voting, community engagement, and demanding transparency in leadership.
Key issues raised included lack of national ID cards among youth, misinformation and disinformation, and low trust in the IEBC. These concerns were addressed by IEBC officials, creating space for clarity, engagement, and renewed confidence in the process.

21/04/2026

Join us on thursday at 8:00 PM for an engaging conversation during our Voter Sensitization Forum on X Space.
We will explore the critical role each of us plays in shaping the future of our communities through informed and active participation in the electoral process. This is a space to learn, reflect, and engage on why your vote matters and how your voice can drive change.
Whether you are a first-time voter or have participated before, this dialogue is for you. Let’s come together to strengthen our civic responsibility and empower every vote.
📅 Date: Thursday, 23rd April 2026
⏰ Time: 8:00 PM (Local Time)

21/04/2026

16/04/2026

During the inception meeting , CEDC also had the opportunity to present a Certificate of Award on behalf of Bajeti Hub to Busia County in recognition of its strong commitment to budget transparency.

Busia County was recognized for producing the most comprehensive Citizen Budget in the County Budget Transparency Survey 2024. The award was presented on behalf of Bajeti Hub to the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Finance and Economic Planning,Mr. Andrew Nakitari, who received it on behalf of the Governor of Busia County.

The recognition highlights the county’s continued efforts to promote open, inclusive, and accountable public financial management.

16/04/2026

CEDC is convening a stakeholders’ inception meeting for the Lake Region Budget Hub under the project “Kuwezesha na Kushirikisha Sauti za Jamii katika Fedha za Umma na Utendakazi.” The meeting brings together key county stakeholders to introduce the project, build awareness of its goals, and reflect on lessons learned from previous interventions within the hub.
It also provides a platform for open dialogue to identify existing gaps in budget transparency, strengthen accountability processes, and explore practical ways to enhance public participation in financial governance. Through this engagement, CECD aims to create strong partnerships and synergy among stakeholders, ensuring that community voices are meaningfully included in decision-making on public resources and service delivery.

10/04/2026

CEDC is currently holding the inception meeting for the "Kagua Viongozi na Maendeleo Mashinani" project, bringing together key stakeholders committed to strengthening electoral governance and accountability in Busia County.
The meeting is aimed at providing a platform to align on project goals, clarify roles, and build a shared vision for meaningful citizen participation,especially among youth, women, and marginalized groups.
As the discussions continue, the focus remains on empowering communities with the knowledge and spaces they need to engage, demand accountability, and actively participate in governance processes.
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09/04/2026

Day 3, the final day of the refresher training, and one thing is clear, learning is not complete without peer learning.

One of the civic educators led a session on land and environment with reference to the Constitution, sharing practical insights and sparking meaningful discussions among participants.
Moments like these continue to show the power of shared knowledge and experience in strengthening civic awareness at the community level.