SHIFT - Shaping Holistic Impact for Future Transitions
We are a movement for transformative change, working at the intersection of governance and civil society to strengthen social cohesion across East Africa.
We work at the intersection of
Governance & Civil Society
Driving locally-led solutions to governance and social cohesion challenges across East Africa
Our Story
A movement born from the belief that
lasting change comes from within
At SHIFT, we believe that lasting peace and shared prosperity require more than short-term fixes. They demand deep shifts in how governance systems function, how communities engage with power, and how institutions navigate social cohesion challenges.
In Practice
What this looks like
on the ground
Governance Solutions
From supporting electoral system reforms to strengthening parliamentary oversight, we work alongside government institutions to design and implement changes that enhance accountability, transparency, and public trust.
- •Electoral system design and reform
- •Parliamentary capacity strengthening
- •Public service delivery improvement
- •Anti-corruption mechanism development
Social Cohesion Solutions
We facilitate dialogue across dividing lines, support community-led peace processes, and strengthen civil society organizations working to bridge ethnic, clan, and political divisions.
- •Inter-clan dialogue and mediation
- •Youth civic engagement programs
- •Community peace infrastructure
- •Civil society coalition building
Our Mission
To drive transformative, locally led solutions to governance and social cohesion challengesby working in close partnership with government institutions and civil society actors. We aim to strengthen the social contract, enable peaceful transitions, and promote inclusive development.
Our Vision
A world where communities and institutions co-create solutions that are not imposed but grown from the ground up, grounded in real needs, owned by those closest to them, and built to last. Peaceful, resilient societies founded on dignity, inclusion, and justice.
How We Work
Guided by principles that
uphold dignity and justice
Local Ownership
We believe that those closest to the issue should define the problem and shape the solution.
Neutrality and Trust
We maintain impartiality to build trust and ensure all voices are heard.
Democracy and Human Rights
We champion democratic governance and human rights as foundations for resilient societies.
Responsiveness
Our work is adaptive and flexible, shaped by emerging realities on the ground.