Phase 2: Speaking to power

Phase two of the arts-based research process in Kenya builds directly on the scoping phase of the workshops in phase one (in May and June 2024).

As opposed to simple collection of experiences from the community, the project wanted to ensure these experiences can be discussed with decision makers and see where research can lead to action.

Between May and June 2025, each of the groups who had participated in phase one voted on a singular theme or issue that they wanted to take forward for public discussion. This work reflects our participant led approach whereby the community decide what they want the focus to be as opposed to a policy driven or wider political agenda.

This meant that the separate groups all chose different issues to focus on which exemplified the multitude of communication modes within families and communities.

The themes ranged from gender-based violence to the widespread issue of lying between peers.

These workshops were collaboratively led by Equator Ensemble, Dr Simon Peter Otieno and Dr Matthew Elliott.

The project team are now embarking on the third and final phase of this part of the research: a professional production co-created with community members and arts partners at the National Theatre in Nairobi in August 2026.