The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has called for urgent reforms to address the persistent challenges women and girls face in the pursuit of gender equality. Speaking on International Women’s Day 2025, NGEC Chairperson Rehema Jaldesa emphasized the need for legislative and systemic changes to advance gender equity in Kenya.
“As Kenya commemorates International Women’s Day 2025, the NGEC has laid out a series of initiatives aimed at addressing systemic barriers and promoting a more equitable society,” Jaldesa stated.
At the forefront of the commission’s agenda is the enforcement of the two-thirds gender principle, ensuring women achieve equitable representation in leadership and governance roles. Jaldesa underscored the importance of gender parity in the political landscape, highlighting that women’s representation in the National Assembly remains at only 23% and 31% in the Senate.
Another critical area of focus is the care economy. The NGEC is advocating for the recognition and redistribution of unpaid care work, a burden that disproportionately affects women. Jaldesa called for the finalization of the National Care Policy to create structures that value care work and support caregivers.
The commission is also pushing for stronger legal and institutional frameworks to support gender-responsive budgeting and accountability. This would ensure that policies and programs effectively promote gender equality and address the unique challenges faced by women and girls.
Addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) remains a priority for the NGEC, particularly in light of the alarming increase in femicide cases. In 2024 alone, Kenya recorded 168 cases, making it the worst year for femicide. The commission is calling for stricter laws and enhanced support systems for survivors, including digital safety measures to combat online abuse.
Other proposed interventions include women’s economic empowerment through better access to financial resources, behavioral change initiatives to challenge patriarchal norms, and targeted responses to emerging global challenges such as climate change and economic instability.
While the 2010 Constitution laid a strong foundation for gender equality, the NGEC emphasized that systemic barriers, including harmful cultural practices, continue to hinder progress. The commission remains committed to driving transformative change and ensuring an inclusive and equitable society for all.
