Transforming governance and strengthening social cohesion
Building bridges between institutions and communities across East Africa
Our Impact
Specialists in
Governance & Social Cohesion
We believe in the potential of communities and institutions to co-create solutions – not as recipients of outside interventions but as architects of their own futures.
Presence
Somaliland, Somalia & Kenya
Specialists
Growing expert network
Core Pillars
Integrated approach to change
Commitment
Dedicated support team
What We Do
Three interlinked pillars for
sustainable change
We help local actors navigate complexity, build resilience, and shape systems that work for everyone
Strategic Operational Advisory
For example, we help government ministries design electoral reforms, support parliamentary committees in strengthening oversight, and guide civil society organizations in strategic planning and capacity development.
- Institutional capacity assessment
- Reform strategy development
- Implementation support
- Adaptive management
Policy Research and Influence
Our research has informed policy on youth participation, electoral systems, and decentralization. We translate evidence into actionable recommendations and advocate for reforms that strengthen democratic governance.
- Policy analysis and recommendations
- Evidence-based research
- Stakeholder engagement
- Advocacy and influence
Knowledge Sharing & Capacity Development
We train community dialogue facilitators, mentor emerging civil society leaders, create peer learning networks for government officials, and develop practical resources on conflict-sensitive governance.
- Training and workshops
- Peer learning networks
- Resource development
- Mentorship programs
Our Approach
Principles that guide
transformative reform
SHIFT is grounded in the belief that sustainable reform must be owned by local actors, responsive to real needs, and built on principles that uphold dignity, inclusion, and justice.
Local Ownership
We believe that those closest to the issue should define the problem and shape the solution. Our support is always designed in collaboration with local institutions and communities.
Neutrality and Trust
We maintain impartiality in our work to build trust among stakeholders and ensure that all voices — especially marginalized ones — are heard.
Democracy and Human Rights
We champion democratic governance, accountability, and respect for human rights as the foundation for peaceful, resilient societies.
Responsiveness
Our work is adaptive and flexible, shaped by what is emerging on the ground rather than driven by pre-set agendas.
Our Foundation
Values that drive our
vision for change
Our values guide our vision, shape our approach, and define our impact
Integrity
We are committed to transparency, accountability, and ethical practice in all our partnerships and operations.
Inclusivity
We believe diverse voices strengthen systems. We strive to ensure every stakeholder has a seat at the table.
Innovation
We challenge conventional development models, embracing creative and interdisciplinary approaches.
Collaboration
We foster meaningful partnerships across government, civil society, and communities to drive collective impact.
Resilience
We support communities and institutions to adapt, recover, and lead sustainable change in the face of adversity.
Justice
We work to build fair, inclusive, and peaceful societies, grounded in equity and human rights for all.
Together, we can ignite hope,
nurture progress, and create
a legacy of transformation
The time for transformative change is now. We invite partners, donors, and community members to stand with us and become champions of a future defined by holistic impact and meaningful transitions.
Your support will help us expand our reach, deepen our impact, and drive forward innovative solutions. Every contribution directly funds transformative change in communities worldwide.
Partner with us to strengthen governance systems, build institutional capacity, and create lasting reforms. We bring expertise, neutrality, and proven methodologies.
The future won't wait, and neither should we