It began, as many public conversations do today, with a short clip and a simple statement. In it, Esther Passaris urged Kenyans to cut down on sugar consumption and prioritize contributions to the Social Health Authority (SHA), linking her own fitness at 61 to lifestyle discipline and suggesting that some who claim they cannot afford SHA may still spend on non-essential items like regular salon visits.

On the surface, the message appears practical. It promotes personal responsibility, healthier living, and support for a national healthcare system. In another context, it might pass without much scrutiny. But in Kenya’s current economic climate, the reaction it generated reveals something more layered than disagreement over lifestyle advice.

This is where the criticism sharpens. This feels like a classic “Marie Antoinette” script not as a literal historical comparison but as a shorthand for what happens when those in positions of power offer simplified solutions to complex, lived realities. It reflects a moment where advice, however logical in isolation, appears disconnected from the conditions most people are navigating.

For many, the issue is not the logic of prioritization, but the framing. The assumption that discretionary spending can be easily redirected toward essential contributions overlooks the financial realities many households face. Rising living costs, unstable incomes, and competing necessities mean that what appears “optional” from one perspective may not be so easily adjusted from another. In such a context, simplified solutions risk sounding detached, even when they are well-intentioned.

This sense of disconnection is not unprecedented. In 2013, former President Uhuru Kenyatta was asked about the price of bread and responded with an estimate that significantly exceeded the actual cost. The remark persisted in public memory, not because of its factual inaccuracy alone, but because it symbolized a perceived distance between leadership and everyday economic experience.

Moments like these are often revisited because they reinforce a broader pattern. They raise a recurring question within public discourse: to what extent do those in positions of influence fully grasp the conditions under which the majority operate? When communication does not reflect that awareness, it creates a gap between intent and reception.

In the case of health and financial decisions, this gap becomes particularly visible. Individual choices do matter, but they are rarely made in isolation. They are shaped by access to income, time, services, and stability. When these structural factors are not acknowledged, advice centered solely on personal discipline can appear incomplete.

The challenge, therefore, is not whether leaders should encourage responsibility, they should. The challenge lies in how such messages are delivered. Effective communication requires not only clarity of message but also sensitivity to context. Without that balance, even reasonable advice may be interpreted as lacking awareness of lived realities.

Ultimately, the reaction to Passaris’ remarks reflects more than disagreement with a single statement. It highlights the importance of alignment between public messaging and public experience. In societies marked by economic disparity, that alignment is essential. Without it, communication risks reinforcing the very disconnect it seeks to bridge.

In this sense, the conversation is less about sugar, salon visits, or even SHA contributions. It is about perception, context, and the responsibility that comes with speaking from a position of influence. but also by how closely its messages resonate with the lived experiences of the people it seeks to engage.

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The Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) report, Fifteen Years On: An Evaluation of Kenya’s Women Political Representation in Relation to the Two-Thirds Gender Rule, provides a troubling assessment. It reveals a network of barriers: a patriarchal political culture, filled with violence and intimidation against women candidates; parties that overlook women during nominations; and prohibitively high campaign costs that financially exclude them. These systemic issues have hindered progress, turning constitutional goals into ongoing exclusion.

Kenya’s situation is even more pronounced when compared to other countries in the region. While our multi-party democracy is vibrant, we lag our East African neighbours in actual gender representation. Rwanda leads globally at 61% after the 2024 elections, Tanzania remains at 37.4%, and Uganda at 34.1%. The difference lies in their move from hopeful ideals to strong systems like minimum 30% quotas written into law, special electoral colleges in Rwanda, and performance-linked proportional lists in Tanzania. Kenya’s competitive model seems admirable, but without strict enforcement, it offers more illusion than reality.

The AMWIK report outlines a clear path and a strategy to compliance to the ‘two-thirds’ in due course. To move the needle, Parliament must pass laws that combine direct elections with reserved seats, particularly at the county level. It should also advocate for gender-balanced tickets for presidential and gubernatorial races, ensuring running mates of the opposite gender.

Firstly, the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) should link party funding to gender-responsive nomination rules, supported by penalties for non-compliance. Additionally, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) should enforce these rules as conditions for elections. To eliminate financial barriers, the IEBC needs to set limits on nomination fees and campaign spending, while Parliament should strengthen swift justice against gender-based political violence.

Women themselves can play a crucial role in shifting the balance. The report indicates that more women running for office leads to better outcomes, especially when candidates consistently run in the same constituency to boost visibility.

Aspiring candidates should strategically use digital and mainstream media to counter biased narratives that focus on traditional societal roles instead of leadership skills. Clear guidelines for gender-responsive coverage that highlight manifestos and qualifications would enhance this effort, making media a powerful tool in elections.

The 2027 election represents the next test of our constitution. Leaders, political parties, and electoral bodies must commit to making the Two-Thirds Principle a priority, transforming Kenya from a place of high expectations to one of real inclusivity.

The AMWIK Report is available here

Queenter Mbori is the Executive Director, AMWIK and Founder of WoKN

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As the world commemorates International Women’s Day 2025 on March 8th, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the progress made in advancing women’s leadership and gender equality over the past three decades. Since the landmark 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, significant strides have been made globally in increasing women’s representation in leadership, enacting progressive policies, and amplifying women’s voices in media and governance. Women have been at the forefront of this transformation, pioneering initiatives that have reshaped social and political landscapes across nations. 

A defining moment in the journey toward gender equality has been the adoption of the Constitution 2010 and legislative measures aimed at promoting women’s participation in leadership. For instance, affirmative action policies, such as gender quotas, have been instrumental in increasing women’s representation in decision-making spaces. The introduction of measures like the two-thirds gender rule, which ensures that no more than two-thirds of elective or appointive positions are held by one gender, has marked a critical step forward. While the full implementation of such policies has faced challenges, their impact is evident in the growing number of women in parliaments, local governments, and executive roles. 

The 2022 elections in several countries, for example, marked historic milestones, with record numbers of women elected to leadership positions. This shift reflects changing societal attitudes and a growing recognition of the value women bring to governance. Female leaders have driven key discussions on economic empowerment, gender-based violence (GBV), and social justice, demonstrating the transformative power of inclusive leadership. 

Despite these advancements, women’s representation in leadership remains below desired thresholds. As of 2023, women held only 34% of key decision-making positions across various arms of government globally, highlighting both progress and the persistent challenges. In the public sector, women’s representation in middle and upper management roles remains disproportionately low, underscoring the need for continued advocacy and policy enforcement to bridge the gender gap. 

Media advocacy has played a pivotal role in amplifying women’s voices and advancing gender equality. By promoting gender-sensitive reporting and empowering women journalists through mentorship, training, and leadership programs, media organizations have contributed to reshaping narratives around women’s leadership. However, challenges persist in the media industry. Despite women constituting a significant portion of journalism graduates, their representation in media leadership remains low. Studies show that while women make up the majority of journalism graduates, they are often underrepresented in senior roles within media organizations. This disparity underscores the need for sustained efforts to promote gender equality within the industry. 

Media organizations have also been instrumental in shaping public discourse on women’s rights. By promoting fair representation in news coverage, highlighting women’s achievements, and challenging gender stereotypes, they have used media as a tool for change.

Digital platforms have further expanded opportunities for women to share their stories, engage in discussions, and influence national and global conversations. The progress seen today is a testament to the resilience of women and their allies. Young women now have more role models, greater leadership opportunities, and stronger support systems. Although barriers remain, collective efforts by governments, civil society, and media advocacy groups continue to break them down, moving societies closer to gender equality. 

Looking ahead, the vision for a more equitable future includes a media landscape where women are fully represented, empowered, and influential in shaping policy and public opinion. Increasing women’s leadership in media by advocating for more female editors, managers, and executives is a critical step. Promoting gender-sensitive reporting remains a priority, ensuring that women are fairly and accurately portrayed in news coverage, particularly in politics, business, and governance. Expanding mentorship and training programs for young female journalists, equipping them with digital, investigative, and leadership skills, is equally important. Additionally, fostering gender-responsive media policies is crucial to guaranteeing equal opportunities for women in the industry. Addressing gender-based violence in media spaces, including workplace harassment and online abuse, is another key focus, as these issues continue to hinder women’s participation. 

Digital platforms offer immense potential to empower women, with social media, podcasts, and online publications providing spaces to showcase women’s achievements and challenge stereotypes. Advocacy for research-based policy reforms will further support gender equity in media and leadership. Supporting women’s political participation by using media to highlight female leaders, encourage more women to run for office, and push for the full implementation of gender quotas is also essential. 

For these efforts to succeed, governments must actively support gender equality in media, governance, and policy implementation. Enforcing gender-responsive media policies is essential to ensuring equal employment opportunities, fair pay, and leadership roles for women in newsrooms. Full implementation of gender quotas is necessary to guarantee equitable representation of women in decision-making bodies. Strengthening laws against gender-based violence, workplace harassment, and online abuse is critical in creating safer environments for women. Additionally, providing financial and technical support for women-centered media initiatives, such as grants, fellowships, and digital training programs, will further advance women’s participation in the industry. 

Collaboration between governments, civil society organizations, and media advocacy groups is vital in driving national gender equality campaigns and conducting research to inform policies. Investing in digital transformation will also help close the digital divide, ensuring that women in media, technology, and journalism can thrive in an evolving landscape. 

As the world celebrates International Women’s Day 2025, the commitment to gender equality remains strong. While the journey is far from over, the combined efforts of women leaders, policymakers, media organizations, and advocacy groups continue to push societies toward a more inclusive and equitable future. With continued investment in media representation, leadership opportunities, and policy reforms, the future of women’s leadership is brighter than ever. Through resilience, collaboration, and innovation, the world is setting the stage for a future where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a lived reality.

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Her win signifies how much has changed but also shows how far there is to go. Like many women leaders, she faced doubts and criticism that her male counterparts rarely encounter. But she let her work speak for itself, proving that leadership is about ability, not gender.  

Netumbo joins an inspiring group of African women who have shattered the glass ceiling. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia was Africa’s first elected female president, showing the world what women could achieve when given the chance. In Ethiopia, Sahle-Work Zewde made history as the country’s first female president, emphasizing unity and equality in her leadership. Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu Hassan has also proven to be a steady, thoughtful leader since she became president in 2021. Together, these women are reshaping the face of leadership in Africa, one step at a time.  

But the path to leadership for women in Africa is still full of obstacles. Female leaders often face harsher criticism, greater scrutiny, and even threats. It’s a hard road, but every win makes it a little easier for the next generation. Netumbo’s victory is more than just a personal achievement. It’s a symbol of hope for women across Namibia and Africa, a reminder that with determination, change is possible.  

Her presidency comes with high hopes. People believe she’ll address pressing socio-economic issues such as unemployment and gender-based violence, focusing on fairness and opportunity for everyone. At the same time, her leadership sends a powerful message to young girls across Africa: they can dream big, too.  

Netumbo’s story, like those of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Sahle-Work Zewde, and Samia Suluhu Hassan, proves that women belong in leadership. Their successes are paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for Africa.

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Kiogora succeeds Nellie Munala, MBS, who retired on August 30, 2024, after serving as CEO since 2015.

Kiogora holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and a Master’s in Business Administration with a specialization in Human Resources from the United States International University – Africa. Her educational background and extensive professional experience highlight her exceptional leadership and strategic acumen, consistently driving innovation and delivering tangible results.

Before her new role, Kiogora served as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Council (NYC), a State Agency under the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, from August 2023 to October 2024. In this position, she spearheaded initiatives aimed at empowering the youth and fostering their active participation in their socio-economic transformation.

During her leadership at NYC, Kiogora demonstrated unwavering dedication to youth development and inclusivity. She successfully executed the organization’s core mission of strengthening youth capabilities and engagement through collaborative initiatives and strategic alliances. Notable achievements include:

• Successfully hosted the landmark Youth Connekt Africa Summit in Nairobi in December 2023, which attracted more than 20,000 young delegates from over 40 countries.
• Spearheading the implementation of NYC’s Strategic Plan in April 2024 and coordinating the International Youth Week celebrations for two consecutive years (2023 and 2024).
• Playing a pivotal role in shaping youth policies across Kenya, leading the creation of comprehensive youth development frameworks for 27 out of the 47 counties through the Kenya Youth Development Policies (KYD).
• Orchestrating the International Youth Day 2024 celebrations, implementing an innovative outreach program through “kikao” (discussion) sessions that connected with over 1,000 young individuals across diverse geographical locations.

As the new CEO of The President’s Award-Kenya, Kiogora brings a wealth of experience in strategic leadership, change management, stakeholder relationship building, and youth empowerment.

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The symposium at the University of Nairobi focused on “The Role of the Employment and Labour Relations Court in Fostering the Right to a World of Work Free From Violence and Harassment, Including Gender-Based Violence and Harassment.” Chief Justice Koome challenged attendees to reflect on whether enough is being done to protect employees and foster workplaces where everyone can thrive without fear of intimidation, abuse, or discrimination.

Koome urged the Employment and Labour Relations Court (ELRC) to assess whether domestic laws align with global standards and if the court’s jurisprudence meets the high standards set by comparative jurisdictions. She highlighted the International Labour Organisation Violence and Harassment Convention, 2019 (No. 190), and its accompanying recommendation (No. 206) as comprehensive frameworks for creating workplaces free from violence and harassment.

The Chief Justice emphasized that violence and harassment in the workplace are not merely occupational challenges but human rights violations. She noted that both the Kenyan Constitution and international conventions mandate bold steps to eliminate these injustices. Koome praised the ELRC for its stakeholder engagement efforts, aligning with the Judiciary’s ‘Social Transformation through Access to Justice’ (STAJ) blueprint.

Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua echoed Koome’s sentiments, stressing the importance of a fair work environment. He acknowledged the significant impact of court judgments on investors and announced plans to ratify ILO Convention 190 before the end of the year. Dr. Mutua emphasized the need to balance employee well-being with productivity and value for employers.

ELRC Principal Judge Byram Ongaya highlighted the symposium as an initiative for multi-door access to justice. He stressed the importance of laws and policies that provide for a work environment free from gender-based harassment and violence.

By addressing these crucial issues, Kenya is taking significant steps towards creating safer, more inclusive workplaces for all employees. The collective call to action from judicial, governmental, and labor relations leaders signals a strong commitment to fostering a work culture grounded in dignity, respect, and mutual regard.

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During the event, hosted by Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti, the Machakos County Government showcased various ongoing projects. The female governors also observed Ndeti’s extensive empowerment program for marginalized communities and praised her strong working relationship with Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi.

The G7 Strategy seeks to rally support from Kenyans for the re-election of current female governors and for deputy governors planning to run for governorship in 2027. Waiguru emphasized the collective vision to see 24 female governors elected in the upcoming elections, along with an increase in women holding parliamentary positions.

The strategy involves engaging women at the grassroots level, focusing on leadership and empowerment, and tailoring approaches to local contexts. Waiguru highlighted the importance of these efforts, noting that women at all levels play a crucial role in the country’s decision-making processes.

Other prominent leaders, including Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, and Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika attended the event.

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What Inspired Deborah Monari to Start Her Petition?

Deborah Monari’s journey towards advocacy was fueled by a deep-seated commitment to protecting the health and future of women and teenagers from low-income households. Shocked by the national data from Kenya Health Information Systems, which reported 110,821 teenage pregnancies in the first five months of this year alone, Deborah saw the dire need to act. In Nairobi, 11,000 of these cases were reported, underscoring the urgent need for accessible reproductive health service.

The Impacts of the Nairobi City County Finance Bill 2023

The bill threatened to make contraceptives and family planning services unaffordable for many. If passed, services such as implant insertion and removal, IUCD insertion, and Depo-Provera injections will become chargeable, with costs ranging from KSh.150 to KSh.500. Post-abortion care will cost KSh.3000, further placing essential healthcare services out of reach for vulnerable women and teenagers.

Community and Stakeholder Response

Since initiating the petition, Deborah has witnessed a groundswell of support from the community and various stakeholders. Citizens, driven by a shared concern for the future of their families and communities, have rallied behind her call to action, emphasizing the critical need to protect accessible reproductive health services.

Personal Stories and Experiences

Deborah’s advocacy is also deeply personal. She has encountered numerous cases where young women’s futures were compromised due to a lack of access to contraceptives and family planning services. These stories highlight the broader societal implications if the bill were to pass, leading to a rise in unplanned pregnancies and jeopardizing the health, education, and future of many young women.

The Influence of a Nguvu Change Leader

As a Nguvu Change Leader, Deborah’s approach to advocacy is informed by her commitment to youth welfare and her experience in the healthcare sector. Her leadership has been instrumental in mobilizing support and raising awareness about the critical issue of accessible reproductive health services.

Effective Advocacy Strategies

Deborah has utilized various strategies to mobilize support for her petition, including leveraging social media, engaging community leaders, and fostering partnerships with like-minded organizations. Her call to action has resonated widely, demonstrating the power of collective citizen action in driving change.

A Message to Decision-Makers

Deborah’s message to decision-makers, including Hon. Sakaja Johnson and Hon. Kennedy Okeyo Ng’ondi, is clear: prioritize the health and future of women and teenagers by ensuring that family planning services remain free and accessible. The power to make a difference lies in their hands, and the community is urging them to act with compassion and responsibility.

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Ms. Nduva’s appointment follows the recall of Dr. Peter Mathuki during a recent summit of EAC heads of state, where leaders deliberated on the bloc’s future direction.

In her inaugural address, Ms. Nduva pledges commitment to deeper integration and development across East Africa.

Promoting peace and security forms the bedrock of her agenda, crucial for lasting prosperity in the region.

Ms. Nduva emphasizes empowering women and youth, acknowledging their pivotal role in society.

Infrastructure development, bolstered by public-private partnerships and innovative financing, holds a prominent spot on her agenda.

Climate-resilient growth takes precedence, with a focus on green energy, sustainable agriculture, and conservation efforts.

About Veronica Mueni Nduva:

• Ms. Nduva previously served as the Principal Secretary for the State Department for Performance and Delivery Management within the Ministry of Public Service.
• With over two decades of experience in governance, she’s a seasoned professional in the public sector.
• Ms. Nduva holds a Master’s degree in Communication and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Public Administration from the University of Nairobi.
• Passionate about governance training and mentorship, she’s received numerous awards for her contributions to governance.
• Ms. Nduva’s publications reflect her expertise in inter-agency collaborations and the public sector.

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Melinda receives a substantial $12 billion from Bill Gates, positioning herself to make a significant impact in philanthropy. This decision coincides with critical research from the Women’s Philanthropy Institute at Indiana University, which indicates that less than 2% of philanthropic donations in the U.S. benefit women and girls.

In recent weeks, Melinda has directed substantial funding towards organizations like the Center for Reproductive Rights, National Domestic Workers Alliance, and National Women’s Law, with crucial support from the Pivotal Ventures Organization. These grants aim to provide essential operational backing for impactful initiatives.

Notably, the Gates Foundation, under Melinda’s stewardship, has spearheaded initiatives spanning diverse causes, from narrowing the wage gap to empowering women in leadership roles and advocating for policy reforms. Now, Melinda is set to unveil a comprehensive $250 million plan geared towards enhancing the physical and mental well-being of women and girls globally.

Melinda French Gates is leaving the foundation she co-founded with Bill Gates, thereby initiating a re-branding to the Gates Foundation. With assets valued at a remarkable $75 billion, the Gates Foundation emerges as a premier philanthropic force, ready to catalyze impacting change under Melinda’s visionary guidance.

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