The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) is a statutory body established under the National Cohesion and Integration Act No. 12 of 2008. The creation of the NCIC was a critical response to the need for an institution that could foster national identity and values, promote peaceful coexistence, and mitigate ethnopolitical tensions in Kenya. The Commission plays a vital role in addressing issues related to ethnic relations, national unity, and promoting reconciliation.
In this article, we explore the key functions of the NCIC and how they contribute to peace and cohesion in Kenya.
1. Promoting Peaceful Co-existence
One of the primary functions of the NCIC is to promote harmony and peaceful co-existence among Kenya’s diverse ethnic and racial communities. The Commission advises the government on policies and strategies that foster good relations between these groups and actively engages in initiatives that aim to reduce ethnic tensions.
2. Elimination of Ethnic and Racial Discrimination
NCIC is mandated to eliminate all forms of ethnic or racial discrimination in both public and private spheres. It discourages individuals, institutions, and political parties from advocating or promoting actions that may cause ethnic, racial, or religious discrimination.
3. Promoting National Reconciliation
Following episodes of ethnic violence or tensions, the NCIC plays a crucial role in promoting national reconciliation and healing. This involves organizing peace dialogues, conducting community outreach programs, and fostering an understanding of diversity. Through these efforts, the Commission seeks to rebuild trust between conflicting communities.
4. Enhancing Diversity Awareness
NCIC seeks to create public awareness about the importance of tolerance, respect for diversity, and acceptance of different ethnic, cultural, religious, and linguistic groups in a pluralistic society like Kenya. It coordinates educational and training programs to promote these values across the country.
5. Conflict Resolution and Mediation
The Commission promotes peaceful conflict resolution through mechanisms such as arbitration, conciliation, mediation, and other dispute resolution strategies. These efforts aim to resolve ethnic and racial conflicts before they escalate into violence.
6. Investigating Discrimination Complaints
NCIC is tasked with investigating complaints related to ethnic or racial discrimination. When valid complaints are received, the Commission makes recommendations to the Attorney General, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, or other relevant authorities for remedial actions to be taken.
7. Policy Advocacy and Legal Reforms
The Commission advocates for policies, legal, or administrative reforms that address ethnic relations and national cohesion. By lobbying for changes in the law, the NCIC ensures that ethnic diversity is recognized and respected within Kenya’s legal framework.
8. Research and Monitoring
NCIC undertakes research and studies on ethnic relations, making recommendations to the government based on its findings. The Commission also monitors the implementation of these recommendations and reports to the National Assembly on the status and effectiveness of its work.
9. Advising Government on Ethnic Relations
The NCIC provides expert advice to the government on socio-economic, political, and development policies that impact ethnic relations. It recommends strategies to ensure that all government initiatives promote national unity and do not exacerbate ethnic divides.
10. Reporting to the National Assembly
The Commission has a responsibility to monitor the implementation of its recommendations and submit regular reports to the National Assembly on the state of ethnic relations and the success of the measures it has advocated for.
Contact Information for NCIC
- Location: Britam Towers, 17th Floor, Hospital Road, Upperhill, Nairobi
- Contacts: +254 702 777 000, +254 20 258 5702
The NCIC remains a cornerstone in Kenya’s ongoing efforts to ensure that ethnic diversity is celebrated and that communities coexist peacefully without discrimination or violence. Through its various initiatives and functions, the Commission continues to foster national cohesion and promote long-term peace in the country.
