Empowering Women in Politics: KEWOPA Hosts Forum in Makueni County
The Kenya Women Parliamentarians (KEWOPA) recently held a dynamic community forum aimed at empowering women and promoting their representation in politics. The event, supported by Uraia Trust and the Embassy of Denmark, gathered a diverse group of participants, including women leaders, representatives from community-based organizations (CBOs), persons with disabilities (PWDs), youth, and other community groups.
County MP Hon. Rose Museo emphasized the significance of public participation in governance, urging attendees to actively support women already in leadership roles. “We must engage our communities to ensure that women’s voices are heard and represented,” she stated. Museo encouraged participants to disseminate the knowledge they gained during the forum, fostering greater awareness of women’s rights and political involvement.
The forum underscored the ongoing struggle for gender parity in Kenyan politics, highlighting that women have long fought for their rightful place in decision-making processes. Drawing on Article 27(3) of the Constitution of Kenya 2010, which promotes equality and non-discrimination, the discussion aimed to inspire women to break the glass ceiling and assert their political rights.
Despite constitutional provisions, women continue to be underrepresented in policymaking institutions, which often leads to their interests being sidelined. This issue is compounded by systemic barriers across the country’s 47 devolved governments. Article 100 of the Constitution empowers Parliament to create laws to advance the representation of marginalized groups, but the persistent exclusion of women remains a challenge.
The forum served as a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration, as community leaders and participants strategized on ways to enhance women’s political engagement and advocacy efforts. By harnessing the collective strength of the community, KEWOPA aims to elevate women’s roles in governance, ensuring that their contributions are recognized and valued.
As participants left the forum, the spirit of unity and determination to support women in politics was palpable, setting the stage for continued advocacy and empowerment in Makueni County and beyond.
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