CONTRIBUTORS
Ben Agina
Government Relations Coordinator
Efficient and effective engagement with governments is a cornerstone of research institutions that seek to create and enhance their impact. The African Population and Health Research Center recognizes the importance of meaningful engagement and collaboration with governments to implement and scale effective evidence-based interventions. Governments are critical players in the policy arena and hold the authority and resources necessary to drive systematic change. By leveraging the expertise and data researchers provide, they can identify priority areas for action grounded in empirical evidence rather than anecdotal observations.
The key to maximizing high-impact research agendas for research organizations lies in aligning with government policy priorities. This alignment ensures that the research conducted is relevant to governments’ current needs and challenges. Developing strategic partnerships between researchers, research institutions such as APHRC, and governments can promote a more cohesive approach to problem-solving and policy development, ultimately benefiting society. Targeted engagement strategies will enable APHRC to leverage its research findings to influence policy and practice and enhance its role as a key contributor to policy development.
Viewed from this perspective, government relations are more profound than just an organizational function; they are a bridge to evidence-based decision-making and a catalyst for well-informed legislative outputs. To successfully influence, collaborate, and navigate this role, there is a need to develop a deeper understanding of policymaking. A thorough grasp of the political environment is also necessary to forge good government contacts and increase policy engagement.
As Government Relations Coordinator, my role involves getting acquainted with and building a rapport with key government officials – both County and National level, critical policymakers, for example, members of parliamentary committees relevant to our work, political players, and procedures that shape decision-making. I will share some crucial best practices for successfully building relationships with governments.
Understanding the identities of politicians, government employees, and influential figures is essential to effectively advocating for significant causes and facilitating open dialogue to ensure that all engagements are practical and targeted. Institutions that engage with the government in a structured manner and those that monitor current laws, regulations, legislative developments, and political agendas tend to capture and identify timely engagement opportunities.
Establishing credibility and trust with government stakeholders is imperative. As far as government relations are concerned, the success of APHRC hinges on building long-term, trust-based relationships with government partners. As the liaison between the Center and government partners, my responsibility is to communicate consistently and reliably, helping the Center build a reputation as a trustworthy go-to partner in policymaking. I must provide accurate information, respond promptly to inquiries, and always maintain integrity.
Proactive engagement with government agencies is essential as opposed to reactive. Postponing advocacy actions until a policy issue emerges could potentially reduce our influence. Rather, it is best to involve Government stakeholders early and regularly through forums such as policy discussions and public consultations. Additionally, aligning our advocacy initiatives with governmental goals increases our chances of success, as does maintaining open lines of communication. Regular interaction with public servants through official meetings or informal networks ensures significant issues remain at the forefront of public discourse and enables prompt feedback on policy developments.
Additionally, cultivating a positive public perception and effectively using media can bolster policy engagement efforts. Legislators are more likely to take notice when there is insignificant media coverage and clear public support for an issue. Regularly assessing and adjusting strategies is crucial in influencing policymaking. What worked in the past may not be effective in the future. In addition, politics is dynamic, and thus it’s important to plan for changes in political power that can impact policies we are keen on.
Overall, improving government relations and policy engagement requires a thorough awareness of the political landscape, building rapport with key players, proactive involvement, alignment with government priorities, open communication, media utilization, continuous strategy evaluation, and change of tactics. By adhering to these best practices, individuals and organizations can advocate for meaningful change and significantly influence policy decisions.
However, if the Government Relations function is seen as disconnected from the Center’s strategy, engaging effectively with the government and coordinating proactive advocacy efforts becomes challenging. This disconnect can result in missed opportunities and hinder the ability to profile stakeholders, among other activities.
To be successful, there is a need to engage in a complex blend of political acumen, proactive engagement, a flexible approach in an ever-changing policy landscape.