The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES), Kenya Office, is pleased to announce the call for applications for the 2025 cohort of its highly respected Political Leadership and Governance Programme (PLGP). Now in its annual cycle, the PLGP continues to be one of the most empowering leadership programmes in Kenya, designed to nurture, train, and mentor young, transformative leaders from across the country.
Introduction
Democracy thrives when its future leaders are well-equipped, inclusive, and grounded in values of social justice, equality, and public service. FES, a German political foundation committed to promoting social justice and democratic political participation, established the Political Leadership and Governance Programme (PLGP) to contribute toward building Kenya’s future political leadership.
The PLGP seeks to fill a crucial gap by offering young Kenyan leaders a platform for growth, mentorship, and capacity-building. Participants are not only trained in technical leadership skills but are also connected to vital networks within the civil society, trade unions, and political sectors. Through this initiative, FES aims to foster a new generation of progressive Kenyan leaders who are committed to shaping a just, inclusive, and democratic society.
With applications now open for the 2025 cohort, FES Kenya invites passionate, young change-makers to be part of this transformative journey.
About the Political Leadership and Governance Programme
The Political Leadership and Governance Programme is a two-week intensive leadership development training designed to empower youth leaders aged between 18 and 35 years. The participants are drawn from civil society organizations, trade unions, and political parties, reflecting the diverse sociopolitical landscape of Kenya.
The programme is grounded in democratic ideals and social justice, offering a comprehensive curriculum that combines both soft and hard leadership skills tailored to meet the needs of young leaders.
The key goals of PLGP include:
- Enhancing leadership competencies among young Kenyans.
- Building a critical mass of socially conscious and democratically-minded leaders.
- Promoting political inclusion for youth from marginalized and vulnerable communities.
- Strengthening the capacity of participants to engage meaningfully in political and policy processes.
- Encouraging inter-sectoral and cross-regional collaboration among emerging leaders.
This is not just another leadership training; PLGP is a transformative experience that cultivates ethical, responsive, and value-driven leadership grounded in Kenya’s socio-political realities.
Key Components of the Programme
The PLGP curriculum is structured around key pillars that represent the competencies and values necessary for effective political leadership. These include:
1. Democratic Theory and Governance
Participants will explore the foundational principles of democracy, rule of law, and constitutionalism. Sessions will delve into Kenya’s political history, comparative political systems, and the evolution of governance structures.
2. Political Economy and Social Justice
This module examines the interplay between politics, economics, and social structures. It equips participants with analytical tools to understand inequality, distribution of resources, and economic justice in policy-making.
3. Leadership and Public Ethics
This component focuses on the values of integrity, accountability, and servant leadership. Through real-life case studies, role plays, and discussions, participants confront ethical dilemmas and develop principled approaches to leadership.
4. Communication and Public Engagement
Participants will be trained in public speaking, strategic communication, social media advocacy, and messaging. These skills are crucial for effective community engagement, political mobilization, and media relations.
5. Gender, Diversity, and Inclusion
FES is committed to inclusive leadership. This module covers gender justice, minority rights, and strategies to enhance political participation of marginalized and vulnerable populations.
6. Campaigning and Electoral Politics
Young leaders learn about electoral processes, campaign strategy, political party operations, and citizen mobilization. The aim is to demystify political engagement and equip participants with tools to participate and lead effectively.
7. Policy Making and Legislative Processes
Through simulation exercises and expert interactions, participants are introduced to the policymaking process at national and county levels, including the role of parliamentarians, public servants, and civic actors.
8. Mentorship and Networking
Participants interact with experienced political leaders, civil society actors, and previous PLGP alumni. These interactions foster mentorship, peer learning, and ongoing collaboration beyond the training.
Why Apply for PLGP 2025?
The benefits of participating in the Political Leadership and Governance Programme go far beyond the two-week training. As a PLGP alumnus, you will:
- Join a prestigious and vibrant network of young Kenyan leaders from different sectors.
- Gain leadership skills and political insight that are applicable across professional and civic spaces.
- Be empowered to drive change in your community and beyond.
- Access mentorship and ongoing support from FES and its partners.
- Gain visibility and recognition as a leader committed to democratic and social transformation.
- Learn from an inclusive, gender-sensitive curriculum that values your background and lived experiences.
- Be part of a growing movement of progressive leadership across Kenya.
Who Should Apply?
The programme is open to young Kenyans aged 18 to 35 years, who demonstrate:
- A passion for public service, political engagement, and social justice.
- Active involvement in civil society, trade union work, or a political party.
- A desire to grow as a leader and make meaningful contributions to democratic development in Kenya.
- Commitment to the principles of equality, inclusion, and participatory governance.
FES strongly encourages applications from underrepresented groups including women, youth from rural and marginalized areas, persons with disabilities, and individuals from minority communities.
There are no academic qualifications required to apply, and no prior political experience is necessary. What matters is your passion for leadership and your commitment to democratic transformation.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung is an equal opportunity organization and does not discriminate on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, or physical ability. The PLGP actively fosters a diverse and inclusive space where all participants are respected and empowered.
Application Process
Deadline for Applications: August 4th, 2025, by noon (12:00 PM)
Interested candidates must submit their application via the official Google Form provided by FES Kenya.
Please ensure you complete all required sections of the application form. Incomplete submissions or late applications will not be considered.
Shortlisted applicants may be invited for further screening, interviews, or clarifications. Only successful candidates will be contacted.
Important Notes
- The PLGP 2025 training will be held over a two-week period, and all selected participants must commit to attending the entire duration of the programme.
- FES Kenya will provide logistical and training support to ensure full participation.
- The programme will take place at a venue to be communicated to successful applicants.
- For more information, applicants may access the full application details and view the official poster through the following page: PLGP 2025 Application
Apply Now
Interested in shaping Kenya’s democratic future? Are you between 18 and 35 years old and actively engaged in civil society, political spaces, or trade union work? Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the next generation of political leaders.
Apply through this Google Form before August 4th, 2025 at 12:00 noon.
For more information, refer to the official call and poster on the FES Kenya website or contact their office directly.
This programme is brought to you by Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Kenya, committed to social democracy, inclusive leadership, and transformative governance.
