The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) Kenya, led by Ann Nderitu, CBS, hosted a study visit from the Registrar of Political Parties, Malawi, Mr. Kizito Tenthani, and his team from November 25th to 30th, 2024. This marked the 10th such delegation hosted by ORPP Kenya in recent years, aimed at fostering peer learning and collaboration in political party governance across Africa.
The two institutions engaged in discussions on shared and unique experiences in managing political parties. Addressing the delegation, Ann Nderitu emphasized the importance of strengthening political party governance structures across Africa, highlighting their role in improving leadership and governance. She stated, “We must build on the gains realized through such peer learning exchanges. ORPP Kenya will continue spearheading such initiatives, having hosted over 10 African countries for similar missions.”
Mr. Kizito Tenthani, who was appointed Registrar of Political Parties in Malawi in June 2024, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity. “The perspectives we shall gain from ORPP Kenya’s functional areas and processes are vital as we establish institutional structures in Malawi.” He noted,
The Assistant Registrar, CPA Florence Birya, added, “ORPP Kenya is committed to capacity-building across the continent. This reflects our dedication to amplifying governance and electoral management in Africa.”
The study visit included comprehensive sessions on ORPP Kenya’s milestones, legal frameworks, compliance, ICT reforms, institutional planning, financial management, corporate communications, and field services. The Malawian delegation also toured ORPP’s Nyahururu office to understand its decentralized service delivery efforts. They engaged with grassroots officials of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in Nyandarua County, learning about the party’s structures and grassroots activities.
Additionally, the delegation visited the Political Parties Dispute Tribunal (PPDT), where they gained insights into appeal mechanisms available for resolving disputes arising from the Registrar’s decisions.
The visit concluded with a gala day on November 29th, hosted by ORPP Kenya, celebrating the collaboration and knowledge exchange. The Malawian team departed for home on November 30th, equipped with insights to enhance their institution’s foundation.