Kajiado Women Encouraged to Pursue Elective Political Positions

Kajiado, Kenya – In a call to action, women in Kajiado County have been encouraged to run for elective positions to ensure their representation and participation in political leadership. The encouragement came from Edna Lenku, the spouse of the Kajiado Governor, who highlighted the current absence of women in elected political roles within the county, despite their eligibility and capabilities.

According to Kenya News Agency, Kajiado County lacks female representation in all political positions, including Member of County Assembly (MCA), Member of Parliament (MP), Senator, and Governor. She stressed the importance of women’s voices in the political arena and their contribution to national development. “I want to urge women to come out and vie for political positions during elections. We currently have no elected woman MCA, MP, Senator, or Governor from Kajiado County, and yet many women are qualified for these positions,” she stated.

Mrs. Lenku encouraged women not to be deterred by competition from male candidates or by outdated cultural norms that have historically marginalized them. She also emphasized the need for women to support each other in their political endeavors.

Echoing Mrs. Lenku’s sentiments, Kajiado County Director of Social Services, Irene Katete, reiterated the capability of women in leadership roles, acknowledging the challenges they face, including threats, insults, and financial barriers. Despite these obstacles, Katete urged women to be bold and aspire for leadership positions. “Women are capable of leadership just like their male counterparts,” she said, calling for a shift away from traditional beliefs that undermine women’s aspirations for leadership roles and equality in politics and economic development.

This initiative marks a significant effort to promote gender equality and empower women to take up leadership roles in Kajiado County, challenging both cultural and social barriers to their participation in politics.