To mark the upcoming completion of the Diaspora Humanitarianism in Complex Crises research project (D-Hum), the Rift Valley Institute, in collaboration with the Danish Institute for International Studies, the Institute for Development Studies at the University of Nairobi and Rako Research & Communication Centre in Hargeisa, organised a conference on the role of local practices and community networks in humanitarian responses.

The conference, titled “Vernacular Humanitarianisms in a Global Perspective,” was held at the Mnarani Beach Club in Kilifi from 1 to 5 September 2024. The conference generated new theoretical and empirical insights as well as fostering discussions on innovative practices among communities affected by humanitarian crises. It brought together researchers from Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Somaliland, Ghana, Nigeria, Germany, the UK, Switzerland, Netherlands and Denmark, who shared insights from various case studies on communities affected by complex humanitarian crises. Participants engaged in reflections, discussions and collaborative learning throughout the event, exploring implications for academic research and policymaking. New networks and friendships were made as well.

The program included two keynote speeches and six panels addressing topics such as technology’s impact on humanitarian efforts, the involvement of faith-based organizations, responses to COVID-19, urban projects, pastoralism and moral economies.

In this video, Nauja Kleist, the project’s principal investigator, gives her take on the conference.