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Women legislators this morning held a stakeholders’ forum to reflect on the progress of the implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action and and to commemorate its 30-year milestone.
In recognition of the progress made in advancing gender equality, Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) chairperson and Kajiado County MP, Hon. Leah Sankaire emphasized the need for a critical approach to addressing the incomplete implementation of the Two-Thirds Gender Rule.
“In Kenya, while strides have been made, a major challenge remains in the full implementation of the Two-Thirds Gender Rule. This constitutional requirement, designed to ensure women’s representation in decision-making, has yet to be fully realized. Achieving this goal is crucial to advancing gender parity in our nation, and it is our collective responsibility to continue working toward its fulfillment,” stated Hon. Sankaire.
Some of the challenges highlighted in the report include deep-seated cultural and societal norms that hinder women’s access to leadership positions, limited budgetary allocations that constrain the reach and impact of some gender equality programs, and the uneven enforcement of regulations regarding awarding government tenders to women-owned businesses.
Limits and limited data on the impact of interventions for marginalized groups like women with disabilities making it difficult to assess their effectiveness and target support appropriately, were also identified .
The report also pointed out priorities for accelerating progress for women and girls which include: equality and non-discrimination under the law and access to Justice, Political Participation and representation, Gender-Responsive Budgeting and changing discriminatory social norms and gender stereotypes.
While reacting to the report, women leaders highlighted the urgent need for the passage of the Gender Bill, stating that further amendments should not be prioritized until the Bill is enacted.
They also called for the prompt appointment of a Cabinet Secretary for Gender and the Gender Commission recognizing the importance of these entities.
Another concern raised by the Women leaders was in relation to the status of Women Enterprise Fund (WEF) which falls under the Ministry of Cooperatives. It was noted that the Fund is vital for women financing.
Women MPs also highlighted the predicaments faced by women leaders in the country. For instance, some being asked to step down for male opponents despite their potential in clinching elective seats.
To enhance political engagement, it was proposed that KEWOPA champions “Mashinani” sessions at the ward level to discuss leadership and electoral participation.
The KEWOPA CEO, Ms. Mercy Mwangi added her voice on the report, stating that it should have specifics on Laws and Policies for instance, Victims Protection Act and the need for a Sexual Harrasment Policy. She also questioned the absence of the Linda Mama program in the report, despite its crucial role in improving maternal health.
The Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage was urged to maintain regular communication with women and incorporate their views into future reports, ensuring that gender equality remains a priority on the national agenda.
