Visitors’ facilities

EfD-Kenya is located within a tranquil environment with close proximity to a wide range of great and supportive services such as learning institutions, and government ministries & other agencies, health and recreational facilities, hotels and accommodation facilities among others. The host institution since inception has been KIPPRA; a reputable semi-autonomous government Think Tank with a large number of qualified researchers estimated at about 50 individuals. KIPPRA and the School of Economics, where EfD-K will be based from January 2012 are one kilometre apart meaning that the centre will continue to enjoy the serene environment it has been. EfD-K has broad research interest in sustainable land management, forest reforms, climate change, environmental valuation, environmental fiscal reforms and fisheries among others.

Research/ academic environment

The centre like the host institute, acts as an interface between policy makers, academia as well as private institutions which makes it strategic in influencing public policy issues. The overall management structure also encourages innovation and several initiatives are usually adopted to enhance the research capacity within the institute. For instance, in- house seminars are conducted regularly where proposals and research findings and discussed with both internal and external discussants. Reviews and brainstorming sessions are conducted to identify topical and policy relevant issues. Researchers also participate in high profile meetings such as conferences and national task forces where there is great interaction and sharing of ideas.

Data management and analysis capacity

Data that is generated within the institute is managed in compendia such as the financial and agriculture as well as the KTMM ( Kippra - Treasury Macroeconomic model) compendium. This is often done collaboratively with government Ministries to improve access and regular sharing of information between institutions. There is great capacity for data storage and a back up mechanism which acts as a contingency plan to avoid any data and information losses. The institute also has well stocked library which is managed by qualified personnel. When EfD-K relocates to University of Nairobi, its data will be managed by the university.

 The office has a 24 hours access to fast and reliable internet. Researchers also have access to several statistical software such as Stata, Eviews, and SPSS.

Guest offices

There is ample office space and necessary equipment to support and facilitate research activities. The equipment includes: computers; telephones, desktops and chairs, LCD projectors storage cabinets as well as stationery materials among other facilities. In addition there is good security and plenty of parking facilities in the vicinity.

Accommodation

The area is served with a wide range of accommodation facilities which include hotels, apartments and houses with large compounds; at affordable rates. Transport facilities are also within reach, particularly taxis. One can also hire a vehicle with ease.