CLARION is unique when compared to other NGOs focusing on Human Rights, Constitutionalism and Governance. CLARION has specialised in research based on practical needs and analysis of knowledge gaps. CLARION is able to conceptualise problems facing Kenyans and to develop research proposals aimed at researching, disseminating information and developing materials for civic education.
CLARION uses materials it has developed for its own civic education programmes and is able to review and improve the materials based on research and engagement of citizens through various forums. The materials developed are used by other civil society organisations in their advocacy work. While there are many organisations engaged in similar activities, very few follow the four-dimensional approach [research, dissemination, development of civic education materials and engagement of citizens] applied by CLARION.
CLARION has competent personnel and physical resources. Having originated from the corridors of the University of Nairobi, CLARION has continued to maintain a strong link with academicians. This has been useful in ensuring quality research and civic engagement products. Apart from university associates, CLARION has other associates drawn from other public organisations and the civil society. Most of these associates are members of CLARION and do not only work as consultants whenever required to, but also contribute significantly to shaping CLARION's mission by participating in the activities and deliberations of the organs of CLARION such as the General Assembly and CLARION's Board of Directors.
CLARION recognises the importance of having an efficient secretariat and has embarked on intensive capacity building programme for staff. The training needs for staff were identified after a Human Resource Audit undertaken between December 2003 and January 2004. Since then, a number of staff members have registered in different capacity building courses that include programme management, monitoring and evaluation, human resource management and computer courses. CLARION has also engaged in building teamwork among Board members and the secretariat through Staff and Board Familiarisation and Team Building Retreats [STABOFATEBRE].
In order to ensure compliance with national tax requirements, CLARION in 2005 engaged a tax consultant to assess the organisation's level of compliance with tax regulations and advise accordingly. This exercise applied a participatory approach that exposed the staff to national tax requirements. CLARION has implemented all the recommendations of the tax compliance audit. All these tasks are aimed at effective implementation of CLARION's programme and activities.
