On 12 May 2026, Mashariki Research and Policy Centre (MRPC) participated in the high-level International Development Association (IDA) – Kenya Forum held at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Upper Hill, Nairobi.

The forum brought together Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to engage with IDA leadership on regional development priorities, implementation experiences, and recommendations for strengthening development outcomes across low-income countries.

MRPC was represented by Research Fellow Agnes Maina during the discussions, which examined the evolving role of the IDA, which is a part of the World Bank, in supporting resilience, inclusive growth, and sustainable development through concessional financing and long-term institutional support.

Participants reflected on the significance of the IDA21 financing cycle (FY2026–2028), which is expected to mobilise up to $100 billion in support of 78 low-income countries globally, including 40 in Africa. The funds will be invested in human development, economic resilience, job creation and supporting sustainable development.

The IDA leadership emphasized the importance of private sector growth in driving inclusive economic transformation, as well as the value of transparency, accountability and meaningful civil society participation in development processes.