Our VisionA Kenyan nation of strong communities that fully embrace democracy and fight for human rights. We will help these communities address suffering and respond to the needs of vulnerable people.
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Our PrinciplesHumanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Interdependence, Voluntary Service, Peace, Democracy--these fundamental values are at the core of every project CEPACET is involved in.
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Our MissionTo prevent and alleviate suffering and to promote democracy, human rights, and capacity building by working with communities, local authorities, and other partners. Through these collaborative efforts, we will provide services to the people in fulfillment of our guiding fundamental principals.
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Our BeginningsCEPACET was created in January 2008 in response to two main events: John Githongo’s decision to step down in 2005 and the election struggles in December 2007.
John Githongo is a former Kenyan journalist who took an official governmental position under President Mwai Kibaki to fight corruption. Kenyans were hopeful that he would bring an end to the government’s corrupt practices. Instead, after two years, Githongo left his position because the corruption continued despite his efforts.
The elections of December 2007 resulted in public uproar. Kenyan citizens were convinced that the election was rigged to guarantee Kibaki a second term. His opponent, Raila Odinga, refused to concede the election. Protesters gathered and riots ensued, resulting in 1,500 deaths and 360,000 displaced citizens.
CEPACET was compelled to get to the root of Kenya’s problems. Barbasa Kundu Nyukui, Professor at the University of Nairobi, advises civil organizations to create and implement civic education programs. She asserts that to develop meaningfully and to create a sustainable nation in Kenya, we must deal with the fundamental issues and lead by educating the people in matters of peace, human rights, environmental sustainability, and multicultural issues.
Our DiversityAs an organization, we are aware of the differences in each region and between Kenya’s ethnic communities. We believe there can be interdependence and a peaceful coexistence between these different ethnic communities in Kenya.
CEPACET is based in Nairobi but also targets the following regions: Kuria, Kisii Trans Mara, Kajiado, Sotik, Kisumu, Migori, Nairobi, Eldoret, Burnt Forest, Molo, Sotik, Bomet, West Pokot, Baringo, Kakamega, Busia, Bungoma, Kwale, kilifi, Lamu, Garsen, Garrisa, Isiolo, Mandera, Nyeri, Limuru, Nakuru, Naivasha, Nyahururu, Laikipia, Trans Nzoia, Mt. Elgon, Kuresoi, Wajir, Turkana, Samburu, Machakos, Mwingi, Yatta, Kibwezi.
Ethnic diversity is not a barrier to national unity and peace. Tom Mboya once observed:
"We are born of different tribes we cannot change, but I refuse to believe that because our tribes have different backgrounds, culture and customs, we cannot create an African community or a nation.”
CEPACET will work to create a Kenyan identity in addition to the existing regional loyalties. By involving citizens in government and community affairs, CEPACET hopes to foster lasting community engagements. We will strategically align with other organizations, form partnerships among groups that are already part of Kenya’s civil society, invite and motivate citizens to take an active role in shaping their future and procuring social justice. Involving Kenyans in projects to better their communities is a step toward a more promising future. If we can provide citizens with the opportunity to voice desires, initiate change, and see these changes implemented, we can make it clear to them that they are the government and should place their trust in themselves.
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