ITEN: Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, the Arts, and Heritage, Aisha Jumwa, has emphasized the need for enhanced participation of women in peace and security processes within the nation.

According to Kenya News Agency, speech read by PS gender Ann Wang'ombe during the 23rd anniversary of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325) on women's peace and security in Iten, Jumwa pointed out that cultural norms and stereotypes should not impede women's roles in these critical areas.

Jumwa stated that the country must continually build the capacity of women for conflict prevention and resolution. She advocated for women's voices to be acknowledged, respected, and included in all levels of decision-making processes concerning peace and security. "Women's participation is not just a matter of equality; it's a matter of making our peace and security efforts more effective, more just, and more sustainable," she said.

The Cabinet Secretary also praised Elgeyo Marakwet county for initiating the Elgeyo Marakwet Action Plan, a program that aims to enhance women’s roles in decision-making, offer support in conflict-affected areas, and bolster the legal framework protecting women from violence and discrimination. She noted the significant strides the country has made in adhering to UNSCR 1325 principles, such as the inclusion of women in security forces and peace negotiations. However, she emphasized that further efforts are necessary for the full realization of these principles.

County Governor Wisley Rotich announced that his administration is preparing a policy to be presented to the county assembly, which aims to involve women more actively in peace processes. He identified poverty as a significant contributor to gender-based violence (GBV) and said that his government will also introduce a wealth creation policy. This policy will engage each household in income-generating activities like cash crop production, dairy, or poultry keeping, with the objective of minimizing household-level conflicts.

County Commissioner John Korir urged the community to take collective responsibility for the well-being of girls, particularly during the extended holiday season.