Women root for realization of gender rights through BBI

Women leaders supporting the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) in Taita Taveta County want the report to support gender rights for equal opportunities.

In their recommendations, the women called for inclusivity and full implementation of the gender rule to improve representation of women in various sectors.

Speaking in Mwatate during a county leaders' meeting, deputy governor (DG) Majala Mlaghui said the report should consider representation, gender equality and inclusivity.

"Women are the pillars of the country, so they need to rightfully take their place in leadership at all levels," she said.

Ms Mlaghui added that women and youth will support the initiative if it considers matters affecting the groups. 

Gender rule

She said women's limited participation in the social, economic and political processes in Kenya is majorly a factor of the tradition patriarchal nature of the society where their role is belittled. The DG said such traditions need to be demystified. 

She noted that women need to be protected and empowered since they hold untapped potential.  

"Empowering a woman is not all about politics, but they should be empowered in all aspects," she said.

Women have unsuccessfully pushed for the implementation of the gender rule.  

Positive changes

Ms Isabella Sato, a representative of women matters in Voi, said increasing access to credit facilities and market opportunities, and participation of women in decision and policymaking at all levels will advance gender equality.

Ms Sato said gaps between women and men on economic participation and political empowerment need to be addressed. 

"The government should work towards building positive changes to women through financial inclusion and economic empowerment initiatives. Empowering a woman is empowering the country," she said.