By Gerald Mukembu
In a bid to bridge the gap between women in leadership positions, the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has conducted a training session at a local hotel in Meru town, emphasizing the need for women to take charge of their futures.
The event aimed to overcome the numerous challenges hindering women from vying for and clinching political seats.
According to KEWOPA leadership, cultural differences, male chauvinism, lack of economic resources, lack of civil awareness, Gender-Based Violence (GBV), lack of mentors, family issues, and inadequate support from political parties are just a few obstacles standing in the way of women in politics.
The Meru Woman Representative, Karambu Kailemia, urged men to extend their support to women in leadership.
“We must shatter stereotypes that limit women’s capabilities,” she said. Kailemia also expressed her disappointment with the current state of women’s representation in Meru, citing only one elected woman MCA.
In her address, Ndumba Kajuju from KEWOPA encouraged women to take the leap and vie for any available seat.
“Go for those positions, campaign, and rally men to vote for you,” she emphasized.
Meanwhile, consultant Purity Mutiku encouraged women to overcome cultural constraints.
“We must champion women’s leadership because they are better equipped to solve crises and make laws,” she said.
Kailemia also criticized the prevalence of femicide and GBV, calling on community members to join the fight against these heinous crimes.
“We must empower fellow women to take charge of their lives,” she said.
The Meru representative expressed her optimism, predicting that over a dozen women will win parliamentary seats in Meru in 2027.
Currently, women in Kenya hold 7 out of 47 governor positions, 28 out of 290 MP seats, and 115 out of 3,960 MCA seats.
Statistical Breakdown:
- Women in Governor Positions: 7 out of 47
- Women in MP Seats: 28 out of 290
- Women in MCA Seats: 115 out of 3,960
