SOCIAL WORKER LEVEL 6

092306T4
CARRY OUT ADVOCACY AND LOBBYING ACTIVITIES
JULY 2024
TIME: 3 HOURS

TAITA TAVETA NATIONAL POYTECHNIC

ASSESSMENT GUIDE

1. Definitions

i. Advocacy
Advocacy is the act of supporting or arguing in favor of a cause, policy, or interest. It
involves activities aimed at influencing public opinion, policies, and decisions in political,
economic, and social systems and institutions.

ii. Lobbying
Lobbying refers to the act of attempting to influence the decisions of government officials,
particularly legislators, or other public officials. It often involves direct interaction with
policymakers, presenting arguments, and providing information to sway their decisions.

iii. Problem Analysis

Problem analysis is the process of identifying and understanding the root causes, scope, and
impact of a problem. It involves breaking down a complex issue into its components to better
understand the underlying factors and dynamics that contribute to it.

iv. Partnership
A partnership is a collaborative relationship between two or more entities (individuals,
organizations, or governments) that agree to work together towards a common goal, sharing
resources, responsibilities, and benefits.

2. Significance of Lobbying

1. Influences public policy and legislation.

2. Ensures the representation of various interests and viewpoints in the decision-making
process.
 3. Promotes transparency and accountability in government actions.
4. Facilitates the flow of information between stakeholders and policymakers.

3. Theories of Advocacy and Lobbying

1. Pluralist Theory: Suggests that multiple groups compete to influence policy,

ensuring no single entity dominates the political process.
2. Elite Theory: Argues that a small number of elite groups or individuals hold
significant power and influence over policy decisions.
3. Resource Mobilization Theory: Emphasizes the importance of resources (e.g.,
money, expertise, networks) for successful advocacy and lobbying efforts.

4. Importance of Lobbying and Advocacy

1. Promotes democratic participation by giving voice to various groups.

2. Helps to bring about social change and policy reforms.
3. Ensures that marginalized and underrepresented communities have their interests
addressed.
4. Influences public opinion and raises awareness on critical issues.

5. Ways to Engage Community Leaders in Advocacy and Lobbying

1. Organizing workshops and training sessions to build their capacity and knowledge.
2. Involving them in the planning and strategy development processes.
3. Encouraging them to act as spokespersons or representatives in advocacy campaigns.

6. Problem Analysis Tools

1. SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)

2. Root Cause Analysis
3. Fishbone Diagram (Ishikawa Diagram)
4. PEST Analysis (Political, Economic, Social, Technological)

7. Significance of Disseminating Advocacy Information to Stakeholders

1. Enhances awareness and understanding of the issues.

2. Builds support and mobilizes resources for the cause.
3. Facilitates informed decision-making and policy formulation.
4. Ensures transparency and accountability in advocacy efforts.

8. Significance of Objectives in Advocacy and Lobbying

1. Provides clear direction and focus for advocacy efforts.

2. Enables the measurement and evaluation of progress and impact.
3. Helps to mobilize and allocate resources effectively.
4. Ensures alignment of activities with the overall mission and goals.

9. Ways of Resource Mobilization for Lobbying Activities

 1. Fundraising campaigns and events.
2. Grant applications to foundations and other funding organizations.
3. Partnerships and collaborations with other organizations.
4. Utilizing social media and online platforms for crowdfunding.
5. Engaging volunteers and in-kind contributions.

10. Types of Lobbying

1. Direct Lobbying: Engaging directly with policymakers through meetings,

presentations, and communications to influence their decisions.
2. Grassroots Lobbying: Mobilizing the general public to contact their representatives
and advocate for specific issues or policies.

SECTION B

13a. Five Stages of Lobbying

1. Issue Identification and Research

o This stage involves identifying the specific issue or problem that requires
lobbying. Comprehensive research is conducted to gather data, understand the
issue, and analyze its implications. This research provides the factual basis for
the lobbying efforts.
2. Strategy Development
o In this stage, lobbyists develop a clear strategy and plan of action. This
includes defining objectives, identifying key decision-makers and
stakeholders, and determining the most effective tactics and messages to
influence the target audience.
3. Building Alliances and Coalitions
o Effective lobbying often requires the support of allies and coalitions. This
stage involves reaching out to other organizations, interest groups, and
individuals who share the same goals, to build a united front and amplify the
lobbying efforts.
4. Engagement and Communication
o This involves direct interaction with policymakers, legislators, and other
relevant authorities. Lobbyists present their arguments, provide evidence, and
communicate their messages through meetings, presentations, letters, and
other forms of direct communication.
5. Monitoring and Evaluation
o The final stage involves tracking the progress of the lobbying efforts and
assessing their impact. Lobbyists monitor legislative developments, evaluate
the effectiveness of their strategies, and make necessary adjustments to
improve their chances of success.

13b. Five Significance of Advocacy Work Plan

1. Clarity and Focus

o An advocacy work plan provides clear direction and outlines specific goals
and objectives. This helps ensure that all team members are focused and
working towards the same end.
 2. Resource Allocation
o A well-structured work plan identifies the resources needed (e.g., time,
money, personnel) and allocates them efficiently. This helps in avoiding
wastage and ensuring that resources are used effectively.
3. Accountability and Responsibility
o The work plan assigns specific tasks and responsibilities to team members,
fostering accountability. This ensures that everyone knows their roles and is
accountable for their actions.
4. Monitoring and Evaluation
o With a detailed work plan, it becomes easier to monitor progress and evaluate
the effectiveness of advocacy efforts. This allows for timely adjustments and
improvements in strategies.
5. Coordination and Collaboration
o An advocacy work plan facilitates better coordination and collaboration
among different stakeholders. It ensures that all activities are aligned and that
there is a cohesive approach to achieving the advocacy goals.

14a. Five Human Rights Issues for Advocacy

1. Freedom of Speech and Expression

o Advocating for the protection and promotion of the right to freely express
opinions and access information without censorship or restraint.
2. Gender Equality
o Addressing issues related to discrimination and violence against women and
advocating for equal rights and opportunities for all genders.
3. Access to Education
o Ensuring that everyone has the right to quality education, free from
discrimination, and advocating against barriers to education.
4. Right to Health
o Advocating for accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare for all,
addressing issues like inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and discrimination
in healthcare services.
5. LGBTQ+ Rights
o Promoting and protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, advocating
against discrimination, and working towards legal recognition and equality.

14b. Five Advocacy Issues in Kenya

1. Corruption and Governance

o Advocating for transparency, accountability, and the eradication of corruption
in government institutions and public service.
2. Land Rights and Displacement
o Addressing issues related to land ownership, forced evictions, and
displacement of communities, and advocating for fair land policies.
3. Gender-Based Violence
o Tackling the high rates of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and discrimination
against women, and advocating for stronger legal protections and support
services.
4. Youth Employment and Empowerment
 o Addressing the high levels of youth unemployment and advocating for policies
that create job opportunities and support youth entrepreneurship.
5. Environmental Conservation
o Advocating for sustainable environmental practices, protection of natural
resources, and addressing the impacts of climate change.

15a. Five Significance of Partnerships in Advocacy

1. Enhanced Credibility and Legitimacy

o Partnerships with reputable organizations can enhance the credibility and
legitimacy of advocacy efforts, making it easier to influence policymakers and
the public.
2. Resource Sharing
o Partnerships allow for the pooling of resources such as funding, expertise, and
networks, which can enhance the effectiveness and reach of advocacy
campaigns.
3. Broader Reach and Impact
o Collaborating with other organizations helps to amplify the advocacy message,
reaching a wider audience and having a greater impact.
4. Increased Knowledge and Expertise
o Partnerships bring together diverse skills, knowledge, and perspectives,
enriching the advocacy process and leading to more comprehensive and
effective strategies.
5. Political Influence
o A coalition of organizations can wield more significant political influence than
a single entity, increasing the chances of achieving advocacy goals.

15b. Five Lobbying Techniques

1. Direct Lobbying
o Involves direct interaction with policymakers, such as meetings, presentations,
and providing testimony to legislative committees to influence decisions.
2. Grassroots Lobbying
o Mobilizing the general public to contact their legislators or participate in
advocacy activities, creating a groundswell of support for the cause.
3. Coalition Building
o Forming alliances with other organizations and interest groups to strengthen
lobbying efforts and present a united front to policymakers.
4. Media Campaigns
o Using media outlets, including social media, to raise awareness, shape public
opinion, and apply pressure on policymakers to support the advocacy goals.
5. Research and Reports
o Producing and disseminating research, policy briefs, and reports that provide
evidence and arguments to support the lobbying efforts, making a compelling
case for change.

16a. Five Differences Between Lobbying and Advocacy

1. Scope of Activities
 o Lobbying: Focuses specifically on influencing legislation and government
policies.
o Advocacy: Encompasses a broader range of activities, including public
education, awareness campaigns, and community mobilization.
2. Target Audience
o Lobbying: Primarily targets policymakers, legislators, and government
officials.
o Advocacy: Targets a wider audience, including the general public, media, and
community organizations.
3. Methods and Tactics
o Lobbying: Involves direct interactions such as meetings, presentations, and
testimonies.
o Advocacy: Utilizes a variety of methods, including grassroots mobilization,
public demonstrations, media campaigns, and educational initiatives.
4. Legal and Regulatory Considerations
o Lobbying: Often subject to specific legal and regulatory requirements,
including registration and reporting.
o Advocacy: Generally less regulated, although certain activities may still be
subject to legal considerations.
5. Objective and Goals
o Lobbying: Aims to influence specific legislative or policy decisions.
o Advocacy: Seeks broader social change, raising awareness, and influencing
public opinion and behavior.

16b. Five Importance of Budgeting in Advocacy and Lobbying

1. Resource Allocation
o Budgeting ensures that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively,
supporting the various activities and strategies planned for the advocacy or
lobbying efforts.
2. Financial Accountability
o A budget provides a framework for financial accountability, helping to track
expenditures, avoid overspending, and ensure that funds are used
appropriately.
3. Planning and Strategy
o A well-planned budget supports strategic planning by aligning financial
resources with the goals and objectives of the advocacy or lobbying campaign.
4. Monitoring and Evaluation
o Budgeting facilitates the monitoring and evaluation of financial performance,
allowing organizations to assess whether they are staying within budget and
achieving cost-effective results.
5. Fundraising and Donor Confidence
o A clear and detailed budget can enhance fundraising efforts by demonstrating
to potential donors and supporters that the organization has a solid financial
plan and is capable of managing funds responsibly.