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.

The post Is This Tone-Deaf or Just Misunderstood? Passaris’ Statement That Has People Talking appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

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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Well, statistically, it has been found that more women than men suffer from mental illness. However, this has been attributed to the fact that women are more outspoken about their problems while men are trammeled with societal expectations of exhibiting stoicism, which is generally embedded in hegemonic masculinity. This makes it difficult for them to show vulnerability, which is deemed weak. But empirically speaking, yes, women in Kenya have been found to suffer more from mental issues, especially mood disorders.

In my opinion, the causes of mental illnesses are not exclusively gender biased. For instance, genetics, substance use, traumas, and even hormonal imbalance have been associated with the etiology of mental illnesses in both genders. Of course, we can’t be oblivious to the fact that hormonal imbalances/ fluctuations do occur more in women, hence the reported higher rates in mood disorders. As previously mentioned, the other plausible explanation for the notably poorer mental health among women as compared to men is women’s presumed ease in vocalizing their mental health concerns.

As we work to support women’s mental health, how can friends, colleagues, and others help?

Friends, colleagues, and other people can help by initially destigmatizing mental illness. I believe the perception held by most people, despite considerable growth in knowledge and awareness about mental health/ wellness, makes it difficult for women to come forward when they need support. This is because mental illness is still regarded as strange/bizarre.  For women who self-stigmatize, a supportive social environment can be the first step towards recovery and wellness. 

What’s your take on seeking therapy even when there are no apparent mental health issues?

The question is, can we say that there is no mental health issue? Any issue that considerably affects how you think, feel, and behave (meaning there’s a slight deviation from the norm) should be considered as something affecting your mental health. Now, that doesn’t mean that it has to be associated with or stemming from a psychopathology/ disorder, but it could mean that you need therapy to navigate it. So, yes, it is important to seek therapy to understand issues that might be causing distress, discomfort, and not necessarily depression, for example. Sometimes, new things that are causing feelings like extreme joy can warrant booking a session with your therapist. New ventures like getting married, starting a business, or deciding to have a baby might need a session with your therapist. It depends on the individual and how they navigate issues.

Regular Mental wellness checks are always good for a woman’s overall mental well-being.

This article was written by Dr. Sylvia Raywe, Consultant Clinical Psychologist at Integrative & Holistic Hospital – Karen.

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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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Here is something remarkable about Rasna Warah – her groundbreaking role in helping East Africans understand their multicultural identity. Back in 1998, when many were still hesitant to discuss cultural complexity, she wrote “Triple Heritage: A Journey of Self-Discovery.” Where she explores the role of the Indian community during the British rule in East Africa.

Think about the courage it took to openly explore what it meant to be simultaneously Kenyan, Indian, and a global citizen at that time. Through her personal story, she gave voice to thousands of East African Asians who had similar experiences but perhaps lacked the words to express them.

Her journey from writing this deeply personal exploration to becoming a fearless critic of international institutions like the UN shows a fascinating evolution. She started by looking inward at her own identity and gradually expanded her lens to examine global power structures, as seen in her final book “Lords of Impunity.”

What’s particularly interesting is how she managed to weave together her multiple perspectives; she could write about local Kenyan issues for the Daily Nation with the same authenticity as when she critiqued international development for The Guardian. She showed that having multiple identities wasn’t a disadvantage, it was a superpower that gave her unique insights into both local and global issues.

Isn’t it incredible how someone who began by questioning where she fit in went on to help reshape the conversation about identity in East Africa?

The post Three Cultures, One Powerful Voice – The Amazing Story of the Late Rasna Warah appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

Childhood sexual violence is often an unspoken burden carried in silence. For many survivors, the abuse is buried deep, veiled by fear, shame, and a lack of safe spaces to speak out. These young girls, full of life and potential, are forced to navigate the world carrying the weight of their violation alone, their voices muted by a society that too often turns away.

The emotional and psychological scars run deep. Survivors commonly face isolation, struggling with feelings of guilt and confusion, and questioning their worth and safety. Some develop lifelong struggles with anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress. Others find themselves battling substance abuse or falling into risky behaviors, trying to numb the pain they are unable to voice. For many, the fear of not being believed or supported traps them in silence.

But their silence does not mean they are unaffected. Even those who manage to suppress the trauma find it resurfacing in other forms in the way they relate to others, in the way they see themselves, and in the opportunities they either take or shy away from. The impact of sexual violence is not just personal it’s societal. These young women grow into adults who, if unsupported, continue to carry the emotional weight of their trauma, which can ripple out to affect their families, communities, and future generations.

In many parts of sub-Saharan Africa, discussing sexual violence remains taboo. The burden of shame often falls on the victim rather than the perpetrator, further compounding the trauma. Girls are taught to protect their families’ honor by keeping silent, leaving them to deal with the confusion and betrayal. This isolation often prevents them from seeking help, while their abusers remain protected by cultural norms and faulty justice systems.

Beyond physical violence, the rise of digital abuse has opened new frontiers of harm. As internet access spreads across the continent, many young girls find themselves vulnerable to online predators, harassment, and exploitation. A growing number of children are facing threats not only from those around them but also from strangers who hide behind screens, making the problem even harder to combat. UNICEF’s efforts have focused on raising awareness and creating safer online spaces for children, yet more dents remain to be filled.

UNICEF’s report points to a burning truth; the issue of childhood sexual violence is far more widespread than most realize. When considering non-contact forms of abuse such as verbal harassment, online grooming, and cyberbullying the number of affected girls and women globally rises dramatically to 650 million. This includes countless children across Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, and other nations in the region, whose cries for help remain unheard amid the noise of societal stigma and indifference.

Yet, despite the enormity of the problem, there is hope. Around the region, grassroots organizations such as Safe Spaces Kenya and advocacy groups such as Equality Now and, Usikimye are working to create change. They are challenging the cultural norms that have kept these stories in the shadows, pushing for legal reforms, and supporting survivors who have been silenced for too long.

Ending childhood sexual violence requires more than just stronger laws. It demands a cultural and mindset shift, where communities become allies, not obstacles, in the fight to protect children. It requires safe spaces where girls can speak without fear of retribution, where they are believed, supported, and offered the care they need to heal. 

The global community is reminded that protecting girls is not only a moral obligation but a pathway to creating a more just and equal society. We must amplify the voices of survivors, invest in child protection systems, and hold perpetrators accountable because every girl deserves the right to grow up safe, empowered, and free from harm.

The post The Unseen Crisis of Childhood Sexual Violence in sub-Saharan Africa appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

How do you heal from something so vile, so dehumanizing? How do you stitch together the pieces of yourself when the very essence of your being has been ripped apart? I cannot begin to fathom it. The thought of it alone makes me sick with rage, with sorrow, with disbelief.

Another experience came from a close friend, a kind soul who five women had raped. You read that right. Five women. But here is the cruel twist: he does not even consider it rape. In his mind, because it involved women, he somehow believes it could not have been an assault. His confusion is heartbreaking. Society has trained him, like so many men, to minimize his trauma, to laugh off what would be a horrific violation if the roles were reversed.

It is time we talk about the uncomfortable truth; 14% of reported rapes involve men or boys. These are not just statistics; they represent lives forever altered, voices silenced by shame and society’s refusal to recognize their pain. One in six reported sexual assault involves a boy. One in 25 consists of a man. Let that sink in. These men and boys are our brothers, our friends, our colleagues. Yet, when we think of rape, men do not even come to mind.

For every man who comes forward, how many others bury their trauma in the depths of shame, too afraid to speak out, too scared to be ridiculed, to be told “Men don’t get raped!” And in that silence, they suffer, broken from within while the world looks the other way.

This is not just about male survivors; it is about all of us. It is about dismantling a culture that refuses to see sexual violence as it truly is, an atrocity that does not discriminate. It is about acknowledging the ugly reality that men, too, are victims, and they deserve the same empathy, the same rage, and the same fight for justice that we demand for women.

We must break this silence. We must stop shaming, start listening, and start believing. Because every survivor deserves to be heard. Every single one. We must acknowledge that sexual violence doesn’t discriminate, and every victim’s trauma is valid, regardless of their gender.

The post It’s Not Just a Woman’s Issue: Unmasking the Reality of Male Sexual Assault appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

Josephine Mwende: A Beacon for Mothers with Disabilities

Josephine Mwende, the founder of AbleRise Africa Society, has made it her mission to advocate for the rights of people with disabilities. Her journey is both personal and poignant. As a woman with cerebral palsy, Josephine faced numerous challenges during her pregnancy and delivery. “It is every woman’s great desire to have a child and enjoy the exciting journey of motherhood. Despite having cerebral palsy, I was over the moon when I learned that I was expecting a baby,” she recalls. However, her joy was overshadowed by rejection and discrimination from multiple hospitals, with one doctor callously stating, “We don’t handle such people.”

Her ordeal took a positive turn when Kenyatta National Hospital finally accepted her, allowing her to deliver her baby safely. “Every time I look at my son, Gift, I tell myself that no woman should go through the pain, rejection, and humiliation that I went through,” Josephine says. This experience fueled her determination to ensure equal health rights for expectant mothers with cerebral palsy.

Josephine’s petition calls for the establishment of a toll-free hotline for reporting discrimination in public hospitals, special consultation rooms for women with cerebral palsy, and awareness programs for hospital staff. Her advocacy is backed by findings from the Nguvu Collective OBV Survey, which highlights the urgent need for policies protecting the rights of women with disabilities during childbirth.

Amina Guyo: Transforming Menstrual Hygiene in ASAL Areas

Amina Guyo Abdi, a nurse, leads the Sitiri Campaign, which trains women and girls in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) to create their own businesses and safe spaces. Amina’s inspiration stems from her personal experience with menstrual hygiene challenges. “I still vividly remember the day I started my first period. I was alone, scared, and had no idea what was happening to my body,” she shares.

In ASAL areas, access to menstrual products, clean water, and waste management is extremely limited. Disposable pads, while intermittently provided, are impractical and environmentally harmful. Amina advocates for the distribution of reusable sanitary pads, which offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution. “Reusable sanitary pads provide a sustainable, cost-effective solution that aligns with the unique challenges of ASAL communities,” she explains.

The Sitiri Campaign not only distributes these pads but also offers training for women and girls to create their own businesses and safe spaces. By addressing cultural and social stigmas surrounding menstruation, Amina’s initiative has garnered positive responses from the community. One success story highlights a young girl who, after receiving reusable pads and training, started her own small business, significantly improving her family’s financial situation.

Driving Change and Seeking Support

Both Josephine and Amina’s initiatives underscore the need for systemic change and community support. Josephine hopes to see a healthcare system that respects and supports women with disabilities, while Amina envisions a future where menstrual hygiene is no longer a barrier for girls in ASAL areas. Their calls to action are clear: support their petitions, raise awareness, and join them in their fight for equal rights and opportunities.

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Dr. Anuradha Khoda’s career spans over three decades. Her passion has always been to unlock the best in individuals. Initially, she served as the Director of IT and E-learning at high schools. This role gave her insight into the gap between professional development and personal growth. Realizing the need for balance, she embarked on a journey to focus on personal development, self-care, and discovering one’s true calling.

Bridging Self-Help and Technology

In her book, The Power of Purpose: A Guide to Finding Your Life’s Mission, Dr. Khoda emphasizes the intersection of self-help wisdom and technological advancements. She believes that understanding one’s purpose is the foundation of personal growth. Her subsequent book, The Thought Leader’s Code: A Five-Step Blueprint, offers a roadmap to becoming an expert in a chosen niche, highlighting the role of technology in establishing authority in today’s crowded marketplace.

A Transformative Experience

Dr. Khoda’s upbringing in a disciplinarian family, with parents who taught in India, Kenya, and Hong Kong, instilled strong values in her. Despite excelling academically, she found that being meek and quiet hindered her career growth. This led her to develop social skills. As a teacher, she noticed that students labeled as slow learners had unique talents that were often overlooked. This realization was a turning point, inspiring her mission to harness individual potential.

Effective Tools for Self-Empowerment

In the digital age, technology plays a dual role. It allows introverts to shine through remote work but can also lead to social isolation and mental health issues. Dr. Khoda views technology as a tool that, when used wisely, can enhance self-empowerment. However, misuse can be detrimental.

Overcoming Professional Barriers

Dr. Khoda identifies common barriers to professional growth, especially for women who often prioritize family over personal growth. She helps women rediscover their purpose once their children are grown. For men, the barrier often lies in career misalignment with passion and core values. Dr. Khoda emphasizes that professional growth is secondary to inner fulfillment and self-care.

Balancing Entrepreneurship and Personal Development

Dr. Khoda advises aspiring entrepreneurs to first become complete individuals. Clear life purposes, aligned with core values, are crucial for success. She believes that personal development should precede entrepreneurial endeavors.

Staying Resilient Amidst Challenges

Faith in a higher power, resilience, and patience are key principles for Dr. Khoda. She has faced numerous challenges but believes that a higher plan guides her life. Practicing this principle daily helps her remain steadfast.

The Importance of Continuous Learning

Dr. Khoda stresses the importance of continuous learning. She utilizes the internet, social media, and AI to stay updated. Her zest for learning, whether as a teacher or student, fuels her growth. She encourages everyone to adopt this lifelong learning mantra.

An Actionable Step from ‘The Power of Purpose’

Dr. Khoda recommends silencing the mind as a first step towards discovering one’s purpose. Sitting in silence enables self-reflection, helping individuals gain clarity on their goals and recognize self-created obstacles. This practice improves focus and sets the stage for success.

A Guiding Quote

Dr. Khoda lives by the quote, “I am the creation of the higher being. So, why am I working hard to create a new life which may not be in the grand plan? Accept your today, live in the moment and take the step forward with all determination because you have a strong hand supporting you.”

This philosophy underscores her belief in the importance of living in the moment and trusting in a higher power’s plan.

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The Founder of Woman Kenya Network replaces Sharon Kechula who served as the acting executive director for four months. 

A statement shared by AMWIK board that was signed by the chairperson Jane Thuo says that Queenter’s  appointment follows a rigorous and competitive hiring process. 

The board said,”She has demonstrably championed gender equality throughout her career, establishing a Gender Desk, revamping anti-sexual harassment policies, and launching innovative mentorship programs,”

Ms Mbori’s passion and commitment in championing gender equality, inclusitivity  and amplifying the voices of marginalized groups align with AMWIK’s mission and will ensure its continuity to its members and stakeholders. 

Speaking during an interview with Woman Kenya Network, Ms Mbori relayed optimism in her new role. Being keen on making impact, Queenter asserted that the platform will allow her to serve women in media across the forty seven counties.

She shared, 

” This is a platform I wanted to tap into because I’m really keen on making an  impact. AMWIK offers a great space to engage women in the media because it draws from the entire nation the 47 counties in Kenya. We have members across the board representing different media organizations and related fields such as communication and Public Relations ( PR). 

“AMWIK has the potential to create opportunities for women in the media in the Public Relations space and the potential to pull resources from these women which can be used to advance  democracy and enhance media freedom in the country.” 

The celebrated advocate for gender equality has demonstrated her passion and commitment in many capacities.She has over twelve years in media management across Africa. The Moi University alumnus has held editorial positions at Mwananchi Communications LTD, Bang! Magazine and Standard Media Group PLC. 

As a certified media trainer , the award winning multi media journalist is an expert in understanding the challenges and opportunities that face women in the media industry.

 Her background in gender inclusive story telling, thought leadership and sustainable journalism make her well-equipped to navigate the ever changing media landscape. 

Queenter’s commitment goes beyond the newsroom. She also offers her expertise to multiple organizations. She is a founding member of the Standard Group Women Network (SGWN).

Queenter is the current Board Chair of SGWN and sits on other boards including African Women in Media and Kigali Declaration Advisory Committee. 

Woman Kenya Network As A Trusted Voice For Kenyan Women 

Woman Kenya Network (WOKN) is a distinguished media company that’s committed to advancing gender equality and promoting the equitable participation of women and girls in society.

 Launched in 2018, WOKN has grown in leaps and bounds to become an award-winning platform and the trusted voice for women and girls. 

WOKN is a fully-fledged digital media platform with a vibrant social media presence on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

WOKN has become a trusted and reliable source of information on gender-sensitive content covering diverse thematic areas including Politics, Climate, Peace and Security, Gender Justice, Health, Economic Empowerment, and SRHR as guided by SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.  

The media company is the main sponsor of the Top 20 Most Influential Women in Kenya Awards. They also hold regular themed events and social networks like the Women in Leadership and provide a platform for women to build networks and advance gender equality and inclusion.

The Association of Media Women In Kenya 

AMWIK was founded in 1982 by a group of women journalist at a time when women voices and issues were given very little attention in the media. 

AMWIK’s objective is to promote an informed and resourceful society through professional development and transformation of the media to enhance the status of women in Kenya.

The organization pulls over 300 women in the media across different parts of Kenya , community networks and media associations across 47 Kenyan counties, pulling their professional skills and giving visibility to the concerns of women. 

AMWIK’s vision is to see a society in which the media embraces and promotes equitable development, human rights and women rights. 

AMWIK’s mission is to use the media to promote an informed and gender responsive society in Kenya and Africa.

The post CEO Woman Kenya Network , Queenter Mbori Determined to Elevate Women Across Kenya as AMWIK’s New Executive Director appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.