By Our Correspondent
Worth Noting:
- Cognizant of the progress in women leaders so far, the Speaker acknowleged that the country was yet to attain the two thirds gender principle.
- “Members of KEWOMA have been at the forefront to spearhead the push for the realization of the two thirds gender principle as stipulated in the Constitution of Kenya 2010. A constant reminder to the leadership and the country atlarge of a pending assignment that need to be undertaken to accomplition in to enhance a progressive growth in women leadership in a mature democracy like ours”, said Speaker.
- The Speaker appreciated the unmatching role played by women in the society adding that women should work together and embrace each other inorder to emerge more victorious in leadership matters.
The Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetangula yesterday applauded women Parliamentarians for their unwavering efforts in championing and advocating for women’s rights and inclusivity in administrative and elective leadership positions in the country.
Speaking during the induction workshop of the Kenya Women Parlaimentary Association (KEWOPA) in Naivasha, the Speaker noted that KEWOPA has played a vital role in rooting for more women in leadership positions and thus contributing to a democratic, just and prosperous nation.
“I wish to acknowledge all stakeholders in the campaign for more women in leadership positions including the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, High Commissions and Embassies passionate about inclusivity in leadership and the Ministry of Public Service and Gender Affairs for their immence efforts towards realizing strengthened participation of women in leadership. I urge them to continue working together in bid to realize the KEWOPA’s vision, ‘Strengthen women’s leadership for a democratic, just and prosperous nation,” he said.
He particularly underscored the efforts made by women leaders in the development of the country’s economy saying that women leaders have been very instrumental in propelling the socio-development agenda of this country.
The Speaker further noted that since independence, Kenya had experienced a spirited but steady growth for women leaders in all levels of leadership in the country.
“I cannot help but also agree with Michelle Bachelet who once said “For me a better democracy is a democracy where women do not only have the right to vote and to elect but to be elected”,
Cognizant of the progress in women leaders so far, the Speaker acknowleged that the country was yet to attain the two thirds gender principle.
“Members of KEWOMA have been at the forefront to spearhead the push for the realization of the two thirds gender principle as stipulated in the Constitution of Kenya 2010. A constant reminder to the leadership and the country atlarge of a pending assignment that need to be undertaken to accomplition in to enhance a progressive growth in women leadership in a mature democracy like ours”, said Speaker.
The Speaker appreciated the unmatching role played by women in the society adding that women should work together and embrace each other inorder to emerge more victorious in leadership matters.
He commended the Chairperson of KEWOPA Gathoni Wamuchomba, Women County MP for Kiambu County for organizing a platform where women leaders have an in-depth scruitiny of the Mandate of KEWOPA, review the performance of the organization and assess the challenges and opportunities from the 12th Parliament draw a strategic road map moving forward into the future particularly on key legislative gaps that exist.
While nolstaligicaly retracing the history of women leaders, the Speaker noted that women have previously proved their relisilience and determination to contest for political positions even while facing harsh political environment.
Wetangula promised that together with his Senate counterpart Amason Kingi will support the women agenda and bills brought to Parliament for deliberations and consideartion.
He further encouraged women in leadership and political arena to ensure they balance well between family and their leardership roles adding that successful women mentor young women into development politics.
The Speaker offered to mentor women leaders noting that the 13th Parliament registred a number of young leaders including the 24 year old county Member of Bomet county, Linet Chepkorir Toto an indication that determination and hardwork always reward.
“Amelia Earnhart once said, “Women must try to do things as men have tried. When they fail, their failure must be but a challenge to others.” Parliament has a history in supporting the work done by our women leaders all the way from the grassroots to legislation matters. I, therefore, encourage more women to step up like their counterparts, all of you seated here today, and engage actively in public affairs of this country, including matters elections and at all times my unqualified support shall be available”, he said.
He acknowledge the significant role played by the women leaders on societal issues surrounding youth, women, and persons with disabilities and their significant contribution to legislation.
On her part, Wamuchomba appreciated forum saying it was an opportunity for networking to create more experiences and opportunities for women.
She noted that there was need to enhance policies and programs geared on supporting women including the legislative agenda for women, reorganizing the strength of women in the political space and expanding policy discourse for women.
The three-day meeting themed “Driving Change: The Value of Women in Leadership” was attended by among others the Speaker of the Senate, the Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Public Service Youth and Gender Affairs, Aisha Jumwa, Ambassadors and High Commissioners, the UN Women Country Representative, Anne Mutavati.
Dennis Dibondo