The Italian Government on Wednesday pledged to give Kenya about Sh100 million (one million Euros) to support the August 8 General Election.

The pledge channelled through UNDP will be used to help IEBC strengthen its capacity to enhance its legislative framework and also support programmes that will ensure inclusivity.

“The aim of this common effort is also to reach out to the Kenyan citizens and guarantee the inclusion of women, youth and persons with disabilities, both to vote and to be elected,” Italian Ambassador Mauro Massoni stated.

The grant will further be used to boost civic education with a view of encouraging citizens to participate in the elections.

Massoni said he believed that the partnership between his government, UNDP and IEBC will add value to ensuring the election will be free and fair as a means of strengthening the democratic space.

“A credible election process can only take place if democratic institutions are well managed supported and nurtured. Developing capacities and capabilities as well as strengthening election management bodies, is therefore, crucial,” Siddharth Chatterjee, UN Resident Coordinator to Kenya and UNDP Resident Representative to Kenya stated.

The grant will further be rolled out to relevant agencies responsible for ensuring the elections will be conducted in conducive secure environment and also facilitate any dispute resolution mechanisms emanating from the electoral process.