Programs
OUR PROGRAMS
Communities across Northern Kenya face complex challenges that require consistent attention. Our work spans four interconnected areas, each affecting the lives and opportunities of pastoralist communities. By working closely with local populations, we aim to strengthen collective resilience and create meaningful impacts in the aspects of life that matter most to them. Our efforts are guided by a commitment to justice, equity, and the long-term well-being of the people we serve.
citizenship rights
In Northern Kenya, many pastoralist families face significant barriers in obtaining basic identification documents such as birth certificates and national IDs. Without these documents, children are unable to enroll in school, adults cannot access health services, and entire communities remain invisible within formal government systems.This lack of legal recognition perpetuates social and economic exclusion, leaving many without a voice in matters that affect their lives. ParaNET works to raise awareness about legal rights and facilitates access to vital documents, helping communities claim recognition and access essential services.
Climate Action
Pastoralist communities live on the frontline of climate change. Recurrent droughts, floods, and shrinking grazing lands threaten livelihoods, food security, and traditional pastoralist practices. These environmental stresses exacerbate poverty, force migration, and increase vulnerability, particularly for women, children, and the elderly. ParaNET raises awareness about climate risks, amplifies community voices in climate-related decision-making, and supports initiatives that aim to build resilience and adaptive capacity, ensuring communities are not left out of critical policy discussions.
Democracy and good governance
Governance in pastoralist regions is often shaped by negotiated power structures dominated by elders, which limits broad participation and reinforces historical marginalization. Corruption and favoritism among local leaders further reduce accountability and transparency, making it difficult for communities to influence decisions that affect their resources and livelihoods. ParaNET engages communities through civic education, local forums, and grassroots advocacy, equipping citizens with the knowledge and tools to participate in governance, challenge exclusionary practices, and promote more accountable leadership.
Human Rights protection
Women, children, and other vulnerable groups in pastoralist communities face systemic exclusion. Harmful cultural practices, limited access to justice, and inadequate legal protection combine to reinforce cycles of inequality and vulnerability. ParaNET works through education, advocacy, and community engagement to strengthen rights awareness, challenge discriminatory practices, and promote protection mechanisms that safeguard the dignity and equality of marginalized individuals.
Community Voices
Real experiences and perspectives from the communities we work with.
Perspectives from pastoralist communities on the obstacles they face in daily life and accessing essential services.
Mukhtar, Kulaaley Resident
“The nearest registration office is nearly 200 kilometers away, and travel is costly.”
Mukhtar, Madax-libah Resident
“We feel invisible in our lands because we lack citizenship documents”
Sumaiya, Makaror Resident
“We struggle to get birth certificates for our babies.”
Join Efforts for Stronger Communitie
Together, we can strengthen resilience, amplify local voices, and create lasting impact