We believe that citizens require a local support system that empowers them to take part in community development. This system involves local leaders, community-based organizations, and organizers, providing citizens with the knowledge and courage to engage in public processes. This network of social structures and community institutions aims to empower citizens by providing the tools…
In today’s dynamic landscape, collaboration is not just a nicety—it’s a necessity. Silos stifle growth and innovation, and our community-based organizers, once isolated, yearned for deeper connection. This is where Maono Space has been transformational. Over the past year, by offering reliable internet, communal spaces, and an energizing community spirit, Maono has torn down walls,…
While data generated by National Statistical Organisations (NSOs) and corporations has long been the focus of attention, there’s a growing recognition of the significance of Citizen Generated Data (CGD). CGD is data produced at the grassroots level by individuals, often through their daily activities and interactions. Through CGD citizens are not just data subjects but…
Traditionally, data collection initiatives have often been top-down, with external organizations setting the agenda and citizens responding reactively. In the traditional model, institutions play a central role in defining what data is collected and how it is collected. Citizens are seen as respondents, participating in data collection exercises initiated by others. While this approach is…
In 2015, we did some work to try and see what citizens care about enough to act and be engaged with the government. We had a simple goal – to stimulate active citizenship and foster responsive government using data to aid communities to provide input into government activities. This project showed us that citizens cared…
We are excited to have signed a letter to world leaders, calling on them to harness the power of data and unlock the data dividend, which we firmly believe is pivotal in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The letter will be highlighted in the High Impact Initiative ‘Power of Data: Unlocking the Data Dividend…
In the grand scheme of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the spotlight often falls on national and global leaders making lofty promises. However, the real action, the actual implementation, happens at the grassroots level. It’s in the hands of mayors, governors, chiefs, and the local communities themselves. Unfortunately, the tracking and transparency needed to…
We are proud to work with KNBS as they lead the Technical Working Group on Citizen-Generated Data. The Open Institute is proud to have played a role in Kenya’s progress in institutionalizing Citizen-Generated Data as part of the National Statistical System (NSS). Since 2015, the Open Institute has worked with communities in Nakuru North sub-county,…
Last Friday, Nandi County released the Nandi Data Desk Dashboard, which seeks to showcase the county’s data. This marks another milestone in the work we have been doing with them since we signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a data desk, which was launched in May this year. Acknowledging the partnership between the Open…
The Governors Baraza, a high-level breakfast meeting that brought together Governors, civil society organisations and development partners was co-organized by the Open Institute, The SDGs Kenya Forum and Baraza Media Lab. The Governors Baraza’s ultimate goal is to enable CSOs to provide support, build relationships and to advocate for the governors to adopt good practices from the onset.
