Welcome to the world’s most demanding job: Mom – always hiring, forever rehiring, and always underappreciated until Mother’s Day rolls around and someone buys her a mug that says “#1 Mom.”

Let’s take a stroll down the résumé of this all-encompassing role, shall we?

Position Type: Full-Time (24/7). That’s right. Your office is everywhere – from the kitchen floor to the emergency room at 2 AM. Your break room? Nonexistent. Your coworkers? Crying, sticky-fingered CEOs of chaos.

Compensation: A generous $0/year, but at least you get paid in hugs, glitter-covered art pieces, and passive-aggressive teen eye rolls.

Job Duties Include:

1. Chef: Because someone must answer the eternal question, “What’s for dinner?” with precision without offending anyone.
2. Nurse: Including but not limited to fever-induced 3 a.m. cuddle clinics and Band-Aid application ceremonies.
3. Therapist: You’re now fluent in decoding sobs and angst with a minor in heartbreak management.
4. Teacher: From ABCs to “where babies come from” to “why we don’t lick the dog.”
5. Referee: Sibling fights, toy disputes, and who-touched-who-without-permission investigations.
6. Judge: From deciding “who licked the sugar” and “who broke the new set of cups.”
7. Cheerleader: Every step, every award, every scraped knee. You clap even when you’re exhausted enough to collapse.
8. Financial Manager: Budgeting with coins found in the couch and magic money you pull out for school trips you heard about that morning.
   

And the best part? Qualifications: No experience necessary – because you’ll learn on the job while being judged by society, the internet, and that know-it-all aunty who raised a “team of soccer players.”

Yet, despite all this, they show up. Moms don’t clock in, and they never clock out. They don’t unionize, and there’s no HR department to report your emotional breakdown over spilled milk. They do it because love, unconditional, fierce, and frustrating, love, has a weird way of giving you just enough strength to keep going when you’re running on fumes and reheated coffee.

So, on this Mother’s Day, let’s raise a glass (or a sippy cup) to the world’s most demanding job. A job that turns ordinary women into legends. A job that comes with no manual but a heart full of instinct.

To the moms who do it all, and somehow, still answer to “Muuummm!” without running into the forest barefoot – we see you. We appreciate you. We still won’t pay you, but we might let you take a quick short nap today.

Maybe.

The post A Mom’s Job Description in Real Life appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

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.

According to a report by the Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM), despite comprising 40% of the ASM workforce, women remain marginalized and trapped in a complex web of economic, social, and regulatory challenges that threaten their livelihoods and safety. Their struggle reveals a harsh landscape of systemic inequality, where opportunity is as elusive as the gold extracted from the earth.

Cyrus Njonde, Senior Program Officer at The Impact Facility, paints a grim picture of women’s experiences. “Many women work as intermediaries, purchasing ore from shaft owners and reselling to gold buyers. These women, at times, are given low-quality ore. Their earnings are between 2,000 to 5,000 Kenyan Shillings per transaction, with some yielding no income at all.”

The challenges extend far beyond low earnings. Women miners face significant risks, particularly from unscrupulous buyers who exploit regulatory gaps. Foreign gold buyers, often Indians, Arabs, and Chinese, provide large cash sums in exchange for gold, bypassing official procedures and creating opportunities for money laundering.

Jane Imbuka, a Local Counselor, gave her intimate insight into the struggles of women in Kakamega’s mining communities. “The women in areas like Ikolomani, Sigalagala, Musoli, and Savane are not just miners, they’re survivors,” she explains. “They’re mothers, community caretakers, and often the primary breadwinners, yet they’re often stripped of dignity and opportunity.”

 “These women face a triple burden,” Jane continues. “They’re marginalized as women, as miners, and often as members of economically disadvantaged communities. Some are HIV-positive or caring for family members with chronic illnesses and some school drop-outs due to early pregnancy and financial constraints. When I meet them, I see incredibly resilient women who wake up before dawn, work grueling hours in dangerous conditions, and still manage to feed and educate their children.”

Jane describes how the lack of institutional support creates a cycle of vulnerability. “They’re often excluded from formal economic structures, forced into informal networks that expose them to tremendous risks. Gold buyers prey on their economic desperation, offering quick cash but trapping them in exploitative systems. These women feel abandoned by the government, by mining corporations, civil society organizations, and by a society that sees them as disposable labor.”

“The regulatory environment compounds these challenges.’’ Peter Munyi, a Mining Engineer and Consultant, highlights critical gaps in Kenya’s 2016 Mining Act. While the legislation recognizes artisanal miners and outlines permit processes, large corporations dominate mining lands, making it nearly impossible for small-scale miners to secure necessary permits.

The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) reports that legal artisanal mining contributed $224 million to Kenya’s economy in 2022 over half of the country’s mining output. Yet, unregulated operations pose significant threats to sustainability and economic development.

Cultural norms further compound these barriers. Many communities consider mining a male field, stigmatizing women who challenge these traditional boundaries. According to Lemisa Imesa, a woman miner from Lirhembe, women are usually given leftovers, which are low-quality ores.

Celestine Liona, another miner from Lirhembe, shares, “We haven’t seen any interventions from the government, and the buyers exploit us. Even with the efforts of our leaders, the impact is not felt.” 

Similarly, Esther Shakava, who has been in the ASM sector for 15 years at Mulundu mines, states, “I have never seen any impact or intervention from the government or stakeholders involved.”

Hope emerges through targeted interventions. Organizations such as Solidaridad are pioneering inclusive approaches through their RECLAIM Sustainability! Program. By developing a Self-Regulatory Framework and establishing multi-stakeholder regional committees, they’re creating spaces for women’s voices and representation.

Key strategies include:

• Facilitating cooperative formations, 
• Providing education on legal rights and mining regulations, 
• Improving access to credit, equipment, and land, 
• Promoting sustainable mining technologies,  
• Establishing resilience teams for health and safety.

Munyi advocates for additional solutions, including blockchain technology to trace minerals, standardized royalty rates, and collaborative efforts between governments, corporations, and financial institutions to support miners through initiatives such as savings and credit facilities.

Technological innovations offer promising pathways for addressing illicit financial flows (IFFs) and enhancing sector transparency. Blockchain traceability could revolutionize mineral trading, allowing consumers to verify ethical sourcing and potentially commanding premium prices for responsibly mined resources.

The ISS report emphasizes the urgent need for a holistic approach. This includes developing a standalone artisanal mining policy, streamlining licensing processes, addressing land rights, and crucially, increasing women’s representation in decision-making bodies like County Artisanal Mining Committees.

The story of women in Kenya’s ASM sector is not just about mining, it’s about resilience, dignity, and the fundamental right to economic participation. By dismantling systemic barriers and creating supportive ecosystems, Kenya can transform its artisanal mining sector from a survival economy to a platform for genuine empowerment.

These women are not just extracting minerals, but carving out spaces of opportunity, challenging entrenched power structures, and rewriting the narrative of their potential.

The project received support from the Thomson Reuters Foundation as part of its global work aiming to strengthen free, fair, and informed societies. Any financial assistance or support provided to the journalist has no editorial influence.  The content of this article belongs solely to the author and is not endorsed by or associated with the Thomson Reuters Foundation, Thomson Reuters, Reuters, nor any other affiliates. 

The post Caught Between Cash, Courage and Corruption: The Untold Hustle of Kakamega Women Miners appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

October is  Africa Pride Month – marking 35 years of celebrating diverse identities on the continent and a moment to reflect on the progress made and the continuous threats toward securing rights, health, and choices for all. While vibrant parades and joyous gatherings dominate in many parts of the world, the reality for many of Africa’s LGBTQ+ community remains one of inequality.

A life in shadows

Tremendous progress has been made in ensuring greater equality for LGBTQ+ people in some countries. However, in a few others harmful laws and policies that criminalize same-sex relationships, often with severe implications, are being passed. These laws not only punish individuals for their sexual orientation and gender identity but also perpetuate a culture of fear and secrecy. Societal stigma compounds the problem, leading to widespread discrimination and violence. Often ostracized from families and communities, LGBTQ+ individuals lose their support systems and even economic opportunities. This exclusion forces many into hiding – into the shadows – increasing their risk of violence, and marginalization from their families and societies, limiting access to vital sexual and reproductive health services, including HIV prevention and treatment, which threatens the goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

A call for gender-inclusive health services

Together, we must do more to understand better and meet the needs of populations left behind, in particular for transgender and intersex people. Available data highlights that transgender and gender-diverse women, as well as lesbians, are more likely to experience higher rates of violence, alcohol, and substance abuse compared to the general population. The health-related rights, including the sexual and reproductive health rights and needs of LGBTQ+ people, are critical, yet they are often overlooked. A limited understanding of existing laws and policies, societal and individual norms, and attitudes give rise to stigma and discrimination in some healthcare settings that can result in judgemental attitudes and a general lack of understanding of the healthcare needs of LGBTQ+ people.

Applying a PRIDE approach to health care services can have far-reaching positive impacts on the health and well-being of all and in particular LGBTQ+ individuals.

What is a PRIDE approach?

1. PEOPLE – It places the needs of people at the center of everything we do.
2. RESPECTFUL – It provides services that are respectful and responsive to the rights and choices of all.
3. INTEGRATED—It includes integrated services that combine the prevention and treatment of diseases with a sex-positive approach and a focus on the health and well-being of the person in totality.
4. DIVERSITY – It includes services that recognize diversity and are inclusive of all.
5. ENABLED – The services it offers are enabled by policies driven by fundamental human rights, including the right to health and sexual and reproductive rights; they counteract biases, stigma, and discrimination, thereby increasing trust in the health care system.

Empowering communities for better health outcomes

A community-led approach is fundamental in ensuring a PRIDE approach to health care systems. Communities must be included and involved in designing, delivering, advocating for, and evaluating health services. Community-led initiatives built on the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ people have proven to be highly effective.

Peers drawn from within the community can navigate the complex healthcare system, empower their peers, and build trust through shared understanding. This shared experience allows them to offer relevant information and address specific concerns in a sensitive and affirming manner that leads to better health outcomes and a stronger sense of well-being.

Towards a more just future

A PRIDE approach can only be achieved if it is enabled by the principles of equality and non-discrimination that are at the heart of human rights and public health. Everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity, is entitled to their human rights, including the right to privacy, the right to be treated as equal before the law, the right to health, sexual and reproductive rights, and the right to protection from discrimination.

Legal protections aligned with international human rights standards are crucial to advance the health and well-being of LGBTQ+. While several countries such as Angola, Botswana, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, and South Africa have decriminalized same-sex relations, governments, professional associations of health care workers, faith-based, traditional, rights-based, and community-based organizations must do more to address societal attitudes and promote diversity and inclusion.

Pride beyond October

Pride is not just a month-long celebration, it’s a reminder and call to action that we should continuously strive to educate and promote respect for the rights and freedoms of all. Collectively, UNAIDS and UNFPA   remain committed to supporting national and community-led actions towards increasing access to information and services for key populations in our region using innovative approaches for advancing the sexual and reproductive health and rights of key populations. 

Through the Joint United Nations Regional Programme 2gether 4 SRHR implemented by our agencies, we supported the finalization of the SADC Parliamentary Forum Minimum Standards for the protection of the SRHR of key populations in the SADC region which is comprehensive SADC Guidance Document on Key Populations on the minimum threshold of acceptable protection for key populations, and include reducing stigma and discrimination, ending violence against key populations, monitoring and reforming laws and policies, and ensuring access to information and services.  Following the Global Coalition Roadmap and the SADC Key Population Strategy, the guide is intended to assist Member States scale up their programs for key populations and provides guidance supported by case studies from the SADC region. Areas for guidance include developing minimum service packages; developing a scale-up plan; differentiated service delivery and integration; and resource mobilization and sustainability.

The program also supported work with civil society on addressing the needs of key populations through peer-led interventions, including drop-in centers, outreach activities, mobile services, and linking and referral to public health facilities, which have resulted in some progress towards attaining the SRH rights for these key populations.

Furthermore, South Africa and Kenya tested models of service provision for key populations that have yielded valuable insights.

We will continue to work together with governments, the community, and other stakeholders to advance rights for all, where no one is left behind, and to advocate for a world in which all people can achieve their full health and well-being, free of violence, stigma, and discrimination. These are the basic tenets of regional commitments such as the SADC regional strategy for HIV prevention, treatment and care and sexual and reproductive health and rights among key populations, resolution 275 of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights, the Maputo Plan of Action, and they are fundamental principles core to the Sustainable Development Goals, including to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

For resources and stories about LGBTQ+ in our region, visit the SRHR knowledge hub at www.2gether4SRHR.org. For information about Pride Month events throughout October visit  Pride of Africa. 

Anne Githuku-Shongwe, UNAIDS Regional Director, East and Southern Africa

Lydia Zigomo, UNFPA Regional Director, East and Southern Africa

The post Beyond the rainbow: LGBTQ+ rights and health in Eastern and Southern Africa appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

“As a country, we have to destroy the trauma and shame surrounding discussing Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights,” Claris states. She’s spearheading a petition to include SRHR education in Kenya’s junior high school curriculum, and her reasons are compelling.

Breaking the Taboo, One Signature at a Time

According to the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), one in nine girls and one in twenty minors experience sexual abuse or assault. Even more disturbing? Ninety-three percent of reported child rape victims knew their perpetrators.

“A familiar face sexually abusing a child will make it hard for the child to realize it is abuse and report it to relevant authorities,” Claris explains.

The Right Time, The Right Place

But why junior high school? “It’s around the same time that students learn about reproductive organs in Science,” she points out. “SRHR can go hand in hand with what is taught in Science and help students understand their own Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights.”

Her vision for the curriculum is comprehensive from human sexuality and personal skills to addressing forms of sexual abuse and avenues for seeking justice. She emphasizes the need for age-appropriate content and teacher training to ensure cultural sensitivity.

Facing the Pushback

In a conservative culture, not everyone shares Claris’s vision. Yet she sees opposition not as a roadblock, but as an opportunity for dialogue. “I don’t see it as a challenge,” she says. “I view it as an opportunity to have heart-to-heart conversations with the persons in question.”

Claris has a message for parents and educators who might be uncomfortable with the conversation: “Information is power. Allowing comprehensive SRHR education allows our children to equally play a role in protecting themselves.”

A Movement Gaining Momentum

Currently backed by the Nguvu Collective initiative, Claris aims to gather 10,000 signatures for her petition. Her ultimate goal is to see SRHR education as an independent compulsory subject in all Kenyan junior high schools, both private and government-owned.

“This is not a journey of a few but a journey of many,” Claris emphasizes. “The future protection of our children depends on you and me.”

How You Can Help

Want to support the movement? Sign Claris’s petition and share it within your network. As she puts it, “Children have the right to enjoy their childhood without the burden of internal struggles and battles fought alone that can be prevented.”

In a world where silence often perpetuates harm, Claris Oyunga’s voice rings clear and true. Through education, she’s not just fighting abuse; she’s empowering a generation to speak up, stand tall, and know their rights.

The post How Claris Oyunga is Leading the Charge for Better Sexual Health Education in Kenya appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

Rosemary, a dedicated Nguvu Change Leader working with the National Council for Nomadic Education in Kenya, has seen firsthand the struggles faced by children in these regions. “The school distances are long, and the low-cost schools are not rehabilitated or refurbished,” she explains, painting a picture of educational institutions struggling against the odds.

The challenges are manifold and daunting. Rosemary lists them off with a mixture of frustration and determination: “No beds, no mattresses, rehabilitation of the schools has not been done by the Ministry of Education, no teachers, poor infrastructure, no wash facilities, limited access to books and stationery.” It’s a litany of obstacles that would discourage many, but for Rosemary, it’s a call to action.

The stakes couldn’t be higher. A recent report by USAWA Agenda reveals a worrying trend: in Kenya’s ASALs, the number of school-aged children (5 to 15 years) who are out of school increased from 7.5% in 2021 to 8.5% in 2023. It’s a statistic that underscores the urgency of Rosemary’s mission.

But the challenges go beyond mere infrastructure. Cultural beliefs and gender roles play a significant part in the low education levels in ASALs. Rosemary shares a personal story that illustrates the complex interplay of poverty, cultural norms, and education: “I had a challenge accessing education considering my poor background. I dropped out of school to allow my younger siblings to attend since my parents couldn’t afford education for all of us.” She goes on to describe how cultural beliefs often prioritize the education of boys over girls, and how issues like period poverty and security concerns further complicate girls’ access to education.

It’s these multifaceted challenges that have spurred Rosemary to launch her petition. She’s calling on the Ministry of Education and regional authorities to collaborate with stakeholders to modernize Low-Cost Boarding Schools across ASALs in Kenya. Her vision is clear: by equipping and modernizing these schools, they can improve access and retention rates for marginalized youth.

“More intake of students, reduction of school dropouts,” Rosemary says succinctly when asked about the potential impact of her initiative. It’s a simple statement that belies the transformative power of education in these communities.

Rosemary’s approach is collaborative and inclusive. She’s working to gather support by collaborating with other change-makers and involving key stakeholders. She envisions a multi-sectoral initiative, noting that organizations like UNICEF and the World Bank are already involved and that there’s an existing committee involving different stakeholders.

As a woman leading this initiative, Rosemary is acutely aware of the unique perspective she brings to the table. “Women tend to look at things from a different angle,” she reflects. “Women can tell the problems on the ground since they are the nurturers.” She advocates for women to be given more opportunities to speak out and shape the future of education in marginalized communities.

Rosemary’s petition has already garnered over 100 signatures, but she’s pushing for more. She calls on the public, both individuals and organizations, to support her cause. “Share the petition, support the rehabilitation, and provide school uniforms, and stationery,” she urges.

The post Rosemary Kyalo’s Quest to Modernize Schools in Kenya’s Arid Lands appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

Ruth’s winning creation, the “Overfishing Bag,” is more than just a fashion accessory—it’s a poignant narrative wrapped in leather. Inspired by the Nile Perch, a species at the heart of Africa’s ecological balance, the bag is a bold commentary on the perils of overfishing. Its design, featuring elements like the fish’s caudal and spiny dorsal fins, speaks to the intricate relationship between fashion and environmental advocacy. Each detail of the “Overfishing Bag” is a reminder that fashion isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a platform for change.

But what makes Ruth Girmay stand out in a sea of talented designers? She can merge creativity with a cause, crafting pieces that resonate on a deeper level. The thematic challenge of this year’s competition asked how fashion can drive environmental sustainability while preserving design excellence. Ruth’s response was both profound and practical. Her “Overfishing Bag” doesn’t just look stunning—it carries a message about the urgent need to protect marine ecosystems. The judges were unanimous in their praise, highlighting Ruth’s innovative use of materials and meticulous attention to detail.

Tezera Ketema, one of the judges, captured the essence of Ruth’s achievement, stating, “Ruth’s ‘Overfishing Bag’ is more than just an accessory; it’s a powerful statement about the need to protect our oceans and marine life. Her design exemplifies how fashion can be both beautiful and impactful.”

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the “Overfishing Bag” showcases Ruth’s technical prowess. The design is as functional and durable as it is meaningful, embodying the high standards that have come to define Ruth’s work. Her ability to tackle complex environmental issues through fashion is what sets her apart—a designer not just of clothes, but of conversations and change.

With this latest accolade, Ruth Girmay is set to represent Africa globally. Her early selection for the UK showcase is a testament to her rising influence, and her participation will undoubtedly shine a spotlight on the importance of sustainability in fashion. This event marks another milestone in Ruth’s journey, underscoring the global recognition of African designers who are making waves in the industry.

Yet, the story doesn’t end here. While Ruth’s win has been fast-tracked, the anticipation builds for the remaining awards, including the coveted People’s Choice Award, set to be announced in Addis Ababa this November. These awards will continue to celebrate innovation, sustainability, and the commercial viability of African design.

As the world watches, Ruth Girmay’s journey from Ethiopia to the UK is a powerful reminder that fashion, when intertwined with purpose, drives significant change. Her “Overfishing Bag” is not just a statement piece—it’s a call to action, and Ruth is leading the charge.

The post Ethiopian Designer Ruth Girmay Makes Waves with Her Award-Winning “Overfishing Bag” appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

The school’s distinctive red and white uniforms make it a notable sight in Kisumu City during school term changes. Known for its excellence in academics, sports, and the arts—particularly hockey, music, and drama—Lwak Girls has produced several prominent alumnae who embody the school’s motto: “In Pursuit of Excellence and Integrity.”

Lucy Gichuhi

Lucy Gichuhi made history as Australia’s first African Senator. Elected in 2017 for the Family First Party, she later joined the Liberal Party in 2018 before losing her seat in 2019. She began her career as an accountant and worked with Ernst and Young and the South Australian Auditor-General’s department. Lucy earned a law degree in 2015 and volunteered with the Women’s Legal Service, showcasing her commitment to justice and advocacy.

Elizabeth Ongoro

Elizabeth Ongoro served as the Member of Parliament for Kasarani Constituency from 2007 to 2013 under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). In 2023, she joined the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) after expressing frustration with ODM. She held significant roles, including assistant minister for Nairobi Metropolitan Development and deputy chairperson of ODM. Elizabeth also served as a nominated senator from 2013 to 2017.

Mary Onguko

Mary Onguko, with an MBA and over 15 years of experience in satellite broadband communications, currently leads as the Regional Business Development Executive for East Africa at Avanti Communications. Moreover, she developed business partnerships with iSAT Africa, iWayAfrica, and Bayobab. Mary co-founded the Project Management Institute of Kenya and has received recognition as a top female tech innovator from various organizations.

Queenter Mbori

Queenter Mbori serves as the CEO of Woman Kenya Network and the Executive Director of the Association of Media Women in Kenya. As an award-winning multimedia journalist and mentor, she brings over 12 years of media management experience across East Africa. Queenter focuses on sustainable journalism and gender-sensitive storytelling while advocating for marginalized voices through various influential networks.

Dorcas Oduor

Dorcas Oduor, the current Secretary of Public Prosecutions at the DPP, previously held roles such as Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions and Deputy Chief State Counsel. She has contributed to several commissions, including as Chairperson of the Board of Review on Mentally Insane (Criminal Psychiatric). Her work in public prosecution reflects her commitment to justice and legal integrity.

Dr. Resila Onyango

Dr. Resila Onyango, the first female police officer in Kenya to earn a Doctorate degree, holds a PhD in Criminal Justice from CUNY and an MSc in Criminology from the University of Pennsylvania. She serves as the Deputy Director of Planning at the Office of the Inspector General of Police. Dr. Onyango’s expertise in Policing, Peace, and Security extends to her teaching roles at John Jay College and USIU-Africa.

Corazon Kwamboka

Corazon Kwamboka is a dynamic Kenyan professional who has made her mark as a lawyer, social media influencer, and entrepreneur. After studying law at the University of Nairobi, she ventured into entrepreneurship, founding Genio Sportswear, a brand known for stylish and practical workout apparel. Her strong social media presence has significantly contributed to her brand’s growth and popularity.

Pamela Steele

Pamela Steele transitioned from a procurement officer to senior roles, including Global Senior Logistics Adviser and Acting Head of Logistics and Supply. Her career spans UNICEF, UNFPA, Oxfam, ICRC, and World Vision. Additionally, Pamela holds an MBA in Supply Chain Management and co-founded WISE to address gender issues. Pamela is also a member of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply and the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport UK.

The post 8 Remarkable Alumnae from Lwak Girls High School appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

Early Career and Inspirations

Before co-founding Nguvu Collective, Durga honed her skills and expertise in various significant roles. Her career began as a television journalist, where she developed a keen understanding of the power of storytelling and media in shaping public opinion and driving social change. This foundation in journalism provided her with the tools to communicate effectively and advocate passionately for causes she believes in.

Advocacy and Campaigning Expertise

Durga’s extensive experience spans renowned organizations like Amnesty International and Change.org. At these institutions, she focused on Communications, Campaigning, Advocacy, and Fundraising in the development sector. Her work at the Change.org Foundation was particularly impactful, as she led initiatives to build digital campaigning and advocacy skills among women. This role allowed her to witness firsthand the potential of women from marginalized communities to drive significant social change when provided with the right tools and support.

Founding Nguvu Collective

The inception of Nguvu Collective was a natural progression of Durga’s passion for empowering women. Alongside Preethi Herman, Durga co-founded the organization with a vision to create an enabling environment for women to learn, share, connect, and lead impactful campaigns. Under her guidance, Nguvu Collective has grown into a powerhouse of advocacy, supporting women leaders in transforming their communities across Africa.

Balancing Professional and Personal Life

Durga’s commitment to her work is paralleled by her dedication to her family. She is a mother to a very talkative 8-year-old girl, who shares her passion for rescuing street animals. This unique aspect of Durga’s life showcases her compassionate nature and her ability to balance a demanding career with personal commitments. Her daughter often accompanies her on animal rescue missions, highlighting a shared bond and a mutual love for advocacy and care.

Legacy and Future Aspirations

Durga’s work with Nguvu Collective is just the beginning of her broader vision for social change. She aims to empower 1,000 women leaders from marginalized communities across Africa, equipping them with the skills and confidence to drive social impact. Through her efforts, she hopes to inspire future generations of women to step into leadership roles and advocate for issues that matter most to them.

The post Durga Nandini: A Catalyst for Change in Women’s Leadership appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

Personal Journey Rooted in Tragedy

Peter Luya’s commitment to widows’ rights stems from a deeply personal experience. On December 2, 1998, he tragically lost his father in a road accident in Nairobi. Peter, then just 10 years old, witnessed his family being torn apart as his mother and siblings faced severe discrimination and disinheritance from their relatives. Despite her Christian faith, which opposed traditional demands, his mother succumbed to societal pressures, leading to a devastating loss of property and dignity. Eventually, this pressure pushed his mother towards alcohol addiction and an untimely death, leaving Peter and his siblings to fend for themselves.

Challenges Widows Face in Kenya

In Kenya, widows encounter a myriad of cultural and legal challenges that exacerbate their vulnerability. Cultural norms often lead to disinheritance, forced widow inheritance, and severe gender-based violence. Discriminatory customary laws favor male relatives, depriving widows of their rightful inheritance. Moreover, societal attitudes perpetuate the marginalization of widows, viewing them as harbingers of bad luck or responsible for their husbands’ deaths.

The Petition for Change

Peter Luya’s petition on Change.org seeks to address these injustices through three main objectives:

1. Strengthening Legal Protections: The petition advocates for the enhancement of laws to secure widows’ rights to inheritance and property ownership, addressing gaps in current legislation.

2. Challenging Harmful Cultural Norms: By promoting awareness and changing societal attitudes, the petition aims to dismantle discriminatory practices against widows.
3. Promoting Gender Equality: The petition encourages broader initiatives to empower women and address the root causes of widowhood vulnerability.

Effective Strategies for Change

To bring about meaningful change, Peter emphasizes the need for:

• Policy Reviews and Legal Reforms: Strengthening laws to protect widows’ rights.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Challenging harmful cultural norms and stereotypes.
• Community Organization: Promoting equality campaigns and rights advocacy.
• Access to Justice:Ensuring widows have access to legal aid and pro bono services.
• National Research: Conducting studies to inform policy adjustments.

The Role of Nguvu Collective

Nguvu Collective has been instrumental in Peter’s advocacy efforts, providing capacity-building sessions and linking him with like-minded partners. They support meetings and campaigns to promote widows’ rights and drive policy changes. Their resources and technical support have been crucial in amplifying marginalized voices and ensuring the implementation of legislative acts such as the Matrimonial Property Act of 2013.

Community and Government Responses

While the response to Peter’s petition has been mixed, he remains undeterred. He acknowledges the community’s normalization of widows’ challenges but highlights positive support from organizations like Nguvu Collective and Tembea Futures Institute. Peter continues to engage with government officials and fellow advocates to push for necessary reforms.

Building Resilient Futures for Widows

To create more resilient futures for widows, Peter emphasizes the importance of:

• Legal Protection: Ensuring robust legal frameworks to safeguard widows’ rights.
• Financial Inclusion: Providing access to financial services and training.
• Healthcare Services: Including mental health support.
• Community Support Networks: Establishing social safety nets.
• Education and Child Protection: Supporting widows’ children through education and psychosocial support.

What’s Ahead?

Peter Luya’s advocacy extends beyond the International Day of Families. He seeks to build partnerships with individuals and organizations committed to supporting widows, using his personal experiences to drive his campaign. His ultimate goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for widows, ensuring they are respected and their rights protected.

By sharing his story and relentless efforts, Peter Luya inspires hope and change for widows across Kenya. His journey underscores the importance of advocacy, legal reform, and community support in overcoming systemic injustices.

The post Championing Change: Peter Luya’s Fight for Widows’ Rights appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.