In a key meeting held today, Principal Secretary for Gender and Affirmative Action, Anne Wang'ombe, engaged in an in-depth discussion with Kello Harsama, Principal Secretary of the State Department of ASALs and Regional Development. The conversation focused on strategies to improve the social and economic empowerment of women in the 23 Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) counties of Kenya.
A primary concern during the meeting was the urgent need to eradicate harmful practices such as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and other forms of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) that continue to affect the region. Both PS Wang'ombe and PS Harsama emphasized the importance of addressing these issues as a means of ensuring the dignity, safety, and empowerment of women in ASAL communities.
"We must take decisive steps to eradicate FGM and all forms of GBV in these areas," said PS Wang'ombe. "This is not just a matter of human rights, but a critical factor in the social and economic advancement of these women and their communities."
The leaders also underscored the vital role that water provision and agribusiness initiatives play in enhancing the resilience of women in the region. With water access often being a significant barrier in ASALs, initiatives aimed at providing reliable water sources are seen as crucial for both household and agricultural activities. Additionally, empowering women through agribusiness training and opportunities is expected to boost their economic independence and resilience against climate change.
"The provision of water and support for agribusinesses are integral to strengthening the livelihoods of women in these areas," PS Harsama noted. "When women are empowered economically, entire communities stand to benefit."
Both officials agreed on the need for continued collaboration between government agencies, local communities, and non-governmental organizations to create sustainable solutions that can uplift women and their families in ASALs. These discussions come as part of a broader commitment to fostering long-term development and resilience in Kenya's most marginalized areas.
The meeting marks an important step in addressing the challenges faced by women in ASAL counties, and both PS Wang'ombe and PS Harsama remain committed to ensuring these initiatives are scaled up and implemented effectively.
0 $type={facebook}:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.