Kenya: The Kenyan government is actively implementing a comprehensive nine-point agenda focused on empowering women and achieving gender balance in governance structures. This agenda, spearheaded by the State Department for Parliamentary Affairs, encompasses economic empowerment, gender equality in leadership, combating gender-based violence, and protecting women’s land rights.
According to Kenya News Agency, State Department for Parliamentary Affairs Principal Aurelia Chepkirui Rono (CPA) explained that these efforts are part of a wider initiative to establish the Multi-Sectoral Working Group on the realization of the gender principle, which mandates that no more than two-thirds of members of elective or appointive bodies should be of the same gender. Speaking at the Women in Governance conference in Naivasha, organized by the Institute of Certified Secretaries (ISC), Rono emphasized the department’s commitment to coordinating policy and legislative initiatives to realize this agenda.
The conference, themed “Breaking Barriers, Enhancing Governance through Partnership and Mentorship,” brought together professionals and experts from both public and private sectors. Rono highlighted Kenya’s progress in increasing women’s representation in various leadership positions, citing the rise in the number of elected women in the National Assembly, women Governors, and Members of County Assembly (MCAs). She also noted the historic appointment of Kenya’s first female Chief Justice.
Rono underscored the importance of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, in recognizing the need for gender representation. She stressed that Kenya has climbed significantly in the World Economic Gender Data rankings, demonstrating progress in gender development.
Mentorship and partnership were identified as key pillars in achieving gender-inclusive governance. Rono described mentorship as a crucial element in leadership development, providing guidance, nurturing talent, and validating aspirations, especially in fields where women are underrepresented.
However, Rono acknowledged that the path to gender-inclusive governance is fraught with challenges, including systemic biases, cultural norms, and institutional barriers. She emphasized the need to confront these impediments to create environments that support women’s participation in governance.
Chief Justice Martha Karambu Koome, in a speech read by Naivasha High Court Presiding Judge Lady Justice Grace Nzioka, expressed concern over the continued underrepresentation and marginalization of women in governance and leadership. Koome pointed out the various structural, cultural, and personal barriers women face in achieving equal participation and influence in decision-making processes.
She highlighted the vital role women play in governance, bringing unique perspectives and strengths essential for societal development. Koome acknowledged the difficulties women face in leadership roles and emphasized the importance of partnerships in supporting women’s advancement in governance.
The Chief Justice cited the success of partnerships in the judiciary, particularly the International Association of Women Judges – Kenya Chapter, which has enabled women judicial officers to access training, mentoring, and advocacy opportunities. Koome encouraged participants to work towards creating an environment where women can realize their potential and capabilities, contributing to the country’s socio-economic development and the advancement of human rights.
The conference also recognized the contributions of pioneering women judges in Kenya, including retired Justices Effie Owuor and Joyce Aluoch, for their role in mentoring a new generation of women judges.