Nairobi, KENYA, 7 AUGUST 2018 (F2A) – Policy champions based in Nairobi have perfected the art of using policy briefs to communicate with policy makers. As a result, these champions are now best placed to advocate for feasible policy and program alternatives.

The learning took place during a one-day masterclass training on Writing for Policy Communications that concluded today in Nairobi. The masterclass was organized by Faith to Action Network and facilitated by senior policy and communications staff from Population Reference Bureau (PRB). Those who attended were senior staff involved in variety of advocacy actions, drawn from eleven faith-based institutions. The program included principles of policy writing and attendants were taken through hands-on exercises to develop a ‘live’ policy brief.

Participants praised the masterclass and welcomed the move by Faith to Action Network to bring experts and give field-relevant skills to the champions. Many times members of the faith community don’t get such training, this is very timely,” said Rev. Fr. Paul Igweta who heads the Justice and Peace department at Association of Member Episcopal Conferences of Eastern Africa (AMECEA).

“For a long time I thought faith leaders are complicated and difficult to work with. This was my first time to facilitate knowledge exchange with such an audience and you guys were awesome. I have really enjoyed,” remarked Ms Angeline Siparo, PRB’s Senior Advisor for East Africa. Other sessions were facilitated by Jill Chanley (Policy Analyst) and Shelley Megquier, also a Senior Policy Analyst with the PRB.

“We thank the experts from PRB for sharing with us this precious knowledge and skills,” said Rev. Dr. Lydia Mwaniki of the All Africa Conference of Churches (AACC) in her vote of thanks. Rev. Mwaniki prayed for blessings upon the experts and journey mercies for Jill and Shelley who were travelling to the US and Ethiopia respectively.

The champions will continue exchanging notes and lessons learnt through email conversations.