KIAMBUI COUNTY – In a significant move toward achieving gender parity and inclusivity, the Kiambu County Government, under the leadership of Governor Kimani Wamatangi, is making strides in incorporating women into key leadership positions across all levels of governance. This effort was highlighted during the commemoration of International Women’s Day, where the Governor emphasized the critical role women play in bringing about positive change within the workforce, families, and society at large, especially during challenging times.
According to Kenya News Agency, the theme for this year’s celebration, ‘Invest in Her: Accelerate Progress,’ underscores the belief that everyone has the potential to be a catalyst for change by promoting gender equality and inclusivity. The Governor pointed out that women are not just filling positions as tokens but are serving as deserving leaders within his administration, from the Deputy Governor to county executive committee members and department heads.
During the event, Rachel Kagoiya, the Executive Director of Groots Kenya, appealed to the Governor to support women in the community by funding and investing in the Groots Kenya Champions Model. This model emphasizes the importance of recognizing the urgency and voices of women, who often understand the challenges they face and hold the solutions. Kagoiya highlighted the model’s proven track record over the past 29 years, advocating for its implementation in Kiambu County to further empower women.
The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day aligns with Kenya’s national development agenda and Vision 2030’s social pillar, which aims to create a just and cohesive society with equitable social development by investing in people. It also complements the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), recognizing the importance of women’s economic empowerment in achieving equitable development. BETA supports women through access to finance, markets, skills development, and entrepreneurship opportunities.
The event saw participation from key figures, including the Department of Education, Gender, Culture and Social Services County Executive Committee Member Ms. Nancy Gichung’wa, Chief Officer of Vocational Training and Social Services Ms. Emily Nkoroi, County Commissioner Dancun Darusi, and other officials, partners, and Members of the County Assembly, highlighting the collective effort toward gender inclusivity and empowerment in Kiambu County.