In a recent address at the G7 Governors Women Caucus forum held at the Kwale Teachers Training College, Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti called on Kenyans to protect and nurture the devolution process that has become a cornerstone of transformation in the country. The forum gathered notable women leaders and governors from various counties, emphasizing the critical role of devolution in enhancing local governance and community empowerment.
The Foundation of Devolution
Governor Ndeti passionately articulated the achievements of devolution, highlighting how it has revolutionized governance in Kenya since its inception in 2013. Devolution, enshrined in the 2010 Constitution, was aimed at bringing services closer to the people, enhancing accountability, and promoting equitable resource distribution across the country. “Devolution has empowered communities across Kenya,” she stated, underscoring its role in improving access to education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
The governor urged all Kenyans to appreciate and safeguard this vital gift. She emphasized that devolution has not only improved service delivery but has also fostered a sense of ownership among citizens regarding local governance. “It is essential for every Kenyan to recognize the value of devolution and work towards its protection,” she asserted. Governor Ndeti’s plea comes at a time when the benefits of devolution are increasingly evident, yet challenges remain, including political interference and resource allocation discrepancies.
The Call to Action for Women
A significant aspect of Governor Ndeti’s speech was her strong advocacy for women’s participation in leadership. She pointed out that the political landscape in Kenya is evolving, with more women breaking into leadership roles that were traditionally dominated by men. “At the inception of devolution, there were zero women in leadership, but in the second and the third dispensations, more women have secured leadership positions, and the numbers are increasing significantly,” she noted.
The governor emphasized the importance of encouraging more women to aspire to leadership roles, arguing that their involvement is crucial for inclusive governance and development. She cited various examples of women who have successfully taken up significant positions in government and various sectors. These include governors, senators, and members of the national assembly who are making strides in policy-making and community empowerment.
Ndeti urged women to rise up and seize the opportunities available to them. “We need to challenge the status quo and ensure that women are represented at all levels of governance,” she said. Her call aligns with ongoing national discussions on gender equality and the need for increased representation of women in decision-making processes.
The Role of the G7 Women Governors Caucus
The G7 Women Governors Caucus aims to foster a supportive network for women in leadership, providing a platform for collaboration and sharing best practices. The caucus is dedicated to promoting the future of women’s leadership in governance and professional circles. Alongside Governor Ndeti, other governors present included Fatuma Achani (Kwale), Ann Waiguru (Kirinyaga), Cecily Mbarire (Embu), Susan Kihika (Nakuru), and Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay).
The forum served as a catalyst for discussing challenges and opportunities for women in leadership. It provided a platform for sharing experiences and strategies that have enabled some governors to navigate the political landscape successfully. The governors reiterated their commitment to advocating for policies that promote gender equity and women empowerment across their respective counties.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite the progress made, Governor Ndeti acknowledged the persistent challenges women face in leadership. These include societal stereotypes, cultural barriers, and limited access to resources. She called for concerted efforts from all sectors of society to address these challenges and create an enabling environment for women to thrive in leadership roles.
“We must dismantle the barriers that hinder women’s participation in governance,” she urged. “This requires a collective effort from men and women alike. It is not just a women’s issue; it is a societal issue that affects us all.” Her remarks resonated with the audience, highlighting the need for collaboration in achieving gender parity in leadership.
The Impact of Women in Leadership
Research has consistently shown that increased representation of women in leadership positions leads to better decision-making and governance. Women leaders often bring different perspectives and priorities to the table, focusing on issues such as healthcare, education, and social welfare, which are crucial for community development. Governor Ndeti emphasized that having women in leadership positions is not only a matter of fairness but also a strategic advantage for effective governance.
Furthermore, she pointed to the successes of female leaders in addressing issues such as maternal health and education. Women governors have demonstrated their ability to implement programs that significantly improve the lives of their constituents, proving that women’s leadership can lead to tangible benefits for society.
The Path Forward
As the conversation on devolution and women’s leadership continues, Governor Ndeti’s call to action serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding the gains made in governance through devolution. She encouraged all Kenyans to actively participate in the democratic process, hold their leaders accountable, and advocate for policies that promote inclusivity and equality.
Looking ahead, the G7 Women Governors Caucus aims to expand its influence and reach, creating more opportunities for women across the country to engage in leadership and governance. The forum’s discussions are expected to lead to actionable strategies that will empower women and promote their participation in decision-making processes at all levels.
Conclusion
Governor Wavinya Ndeti’s passionate appeal at the G7 Governors Women Caucus forum is a significant reminder of the critical role of devolution in Kenya’s transformation. Her advocacy for women’s leadership highlights the necessity of fostering an inclusive political landscape where all voices are heard. As Kenyans rally to protect devolution, it is imperative that the nation also champions the empowerment of women in leadership, ensuring that the benefits of devolution are felt by all. The future of Kenya depends on the collective efforts of its citizens to safeguard the gains achieved and to strive for a more equitable and inclusive society.
