Angeline Yiamiton Siparo, Chairperson of the Maa Women’s Umbrella Network, expressed concern over the inappropriate language, video clips, and photos targeting Tuya on social media. Siparo stated, “We, as the Maa Women’s Umbrella Network, strongly condemn the abuse and disrespect directed towards her.”

In a media statement, Siparo emphasized Tuya’s credentials, noting her decade-long leadership as the Narok County Woman MP, her academic achievements with a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Nairobi and a Master of Laws from the University of Washington, USA. She also highlighted Tuya’s professional role as Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Environment and Forestry for nearly two years.

“We strongly believe in her ability to serve in the Ministry of Defence as seen fit by President William Ruto,”

Siparo stressed Tuya’s personal life is a private affair and all defamatory comments on social media platforms amount to slander urging organizations that defend women’s rights to support the cyberbullying against Tuya who is the senior most- Maa woman leader and a national leader. 

Despite her extensive leadership experience that includes serving two terms as Narok County Woman Rep, Tuya has become subject to public scrutiny and derogatory comments on social media following her appointment as Environment CS on July 19 prior to the switch to* CS Defence on July 23. 

Women legislators from Laikipia, Kajiado, and Samburu have spoken out against the sexual attacks and cyberbullying directed towards Tuya. They have called on authorities to address gender-based violence and noted that women appointed to top positions often face unwanted criticism.

The legislators stated, “We urge the concerned authority to address gender-based violence. Every time a woman is appointed, people begin spreading harmful rumors. Women who have been appointed are all qualified.” They added, “We personally know Tuya. What we are witnessing now is gender-based violence. Those responsible for spreading edited pictures should be held accountable. We are closely observing the trend where a woman’s appointment is followed by claims that she is someone’s girlfriend.”

Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo also condemned the attacks and advocated for equal standards in the appointment of both female and male leaders. Millie, who has a law degree from the University of Nairobi and previously worked as a legal officer for non-profit organizations, shared, “I want to encourage Gen Zs. I support them, but let’s avoid getting trapped in sexual innuendos.”

The post Maa Women’s Organizations Unite Against Cyberbullying and Sexualization of Defence Nominee Soipan Tuya appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

Twenty-five year old Moroccan Defender Nouhalia Benzina made history by becoming the first player to wear a hijab at the World Cup. Nouhalia played in the match that secured her team a 1-0 win over South Korea. 

 Assmaah Helal, the Muslim Women in Sports Network Co-founder, praised Benzina:

“Girls will look at Benzina [and think] ‘that could be me. Also, the policymakers, the decision-makers, and administrators will say, ‘We need to do more in our country to create these accepting and open and inclusive spaces for women and girls to participate in the game.”

Benzina’s admirable step shows her freedom to express her beliefs since twenty years ago hijabs were placed beyond a line in the sand. In 2014, Fifa authorized the wearing of head coverings for religious reasons. Previously it had banned the hijab on safety and health grounds, fearing possible choking. They later changed this before the Under-17 Women’s World Cup that was held in Jordan.

Nouhalia plays professionally as a defender for the Association’s Sports of Forces Armed Royal and Morocco Women’s National Team. She was included in the Moroccan national team squad for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The post MOROCCO’S DEFENDER NOUHALIA BENZINA BECOMES FIRST WOMAN TO WEAR HIJAB AT WORLD CUP  appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

British American Tobacco Kenya plc (BAT Kenya) is part of the British American Tobacco Group (BAT Group), a leading multi-category consumer goods business that has existed since 1907. They were listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange in 1969. 

Data analysis revealed that women outperformed men in 4 out of 8 job groups and were on par with men in other job grades.

Outstanding performance

However, men had the advantage in the remaining three job groupings. The largest difference was observed in the senior management group, where women earned 19 percent more than men due to the outstanding performance of female employees and the addition of experienced external female staff.

Women also outearned men in job groups G32, G33, and G35, but men earned considerably more than women in the lowest job category, with a margin of 67 percent. The company attributed the pay gap to years of service and the annual salary review process.

Men spend more time in the same job group, leading to higher average times in grades. On average, male employees stayed within the same pay grade for four and a half years while female employees stayed for three years and two months. BAT has pledged to address the issue by considering factors like performance, experience, and time in job groups in salary reviews to ensure equality and fairness in pay.

Men have always been ahead of women

The BAT situation is challenging the gender pay gap in Kenya has always put men ahead of women. According to a 2019 study on gender equality in Kenya, by Equileap on average, women earn 32% less than their male counterparts, compared to 23% globally.

BAT Kenya serves as a manufacturing hub for Kenya’s domestic market and BAT markets in East Africa and Southern Africa, as well as export markets across Eastern, Central, and Southern Africa, through a cigarette manufacturing plant in Nairobi and a green leaf threshing (GLT) plant in Thika.

The post PAY GAP: WHERE WOMEN EARN MORE THAN MEN appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

Merab was a communication specialist, media trainer, speaker, and moderator who lent her skills and expertise to organizations like the East African Community (EAC) and Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).

In 2021, she became the first recipient of the Global Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Journalism Award by Amref Health Africa. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Kenyatta University and several degrees in Science Journalism, Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs from Rhodes University. She is also a holder of a Master’s degree in Digital Journalism from Aga Khan University.

Merab worked as a health and science journalist for close to seven years at Nation Media Group. In 2021 she collaborated on a media project looking at how health issues are currently being covered in the news by Sparknews located in Paris, France.

She is an award winner of the Children and Youth Affairs category in 2015 for the Kenya Media Network on Population and Development (KEMEP). She was also a finalist in, Thomson Foundation Young Journalist FPA Award 2017. In Aug 2018 Merab was awarded the Environment Reporting Award 2018 by the Media Council of Kenya for a conservation story she did on the extinction of the Northern White Rhino. Media colleagues have poured their messages of condolences, remembering the late Meran for putting up a spirited fight, with a big smile on her face.

The post MEDIA FRATERNITY MOURNS JOURNALIST ELIZABETH MERAB appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

Ingred Awuor is an ex-model and currently a model coach and a fashion show producer.  Own The Runway is a non-profit organization that focuses on events for community impact. This year, the charity fashion show supported young mothers who live in informal settlements in Kenya. Some of the designers who showcased include Epica Jewellery, Bam’I Collections, Sewphisticated by Viane, Miss CEO and Roma Designs Africa.

Previously, the charity fashion show  supported and advocated for recognition of albino models in the fashion industry. They also supported the albino community with resources essential for their well-being and survival.

Truth be told, you put up quite a show. Briefly talk about how you planned the event.

It took five months of planning. Planning involves scouting for models and designers, looking for a postpartum foundation to support, and visiting mums who are grappling with postpartum depression, to build a relationship and offer therapy. 

We also trained models on the catwalk, ensuring designers understood the concept of the show. Planning also  involved talking to artistes for entertainment and collaborating with event organisers and looking for a venue, doing dress rehearsals, and involving the Mcees.

Why was  the focus on postpartum depression?

INGRED AWUOR, CEO AND FOUNDER BLACKDUST EVENTS.

Postpartum mums in the urban slums have low or zero income which means that besides financial insecurity they struggle with postpartum depression. 

Depression is worse when one has no financial support and a support system, therefore, Mums with newborns need support in every aspect. I am a mother too so I understand these struggles.

Some highlights from the charity Gala 2022?

First and foremost, I am proud of the fact that we gave upcoming designers a platform to showcase their designs and be visible. I am also proud of allowing upcoming models to grace the show and showcase their talent. I am glad that the audience enjoyed every bit of the show, and for many, it was their first time at a fashion show.

You worked very closely with not one but several notable sponsors including Linton’s Beauty College, Verushka wigs, Alpha Fit gym; the list is endless. Do you have any  message for them? 

I would like to thank all the sponsors for believing in me and supporting this noble cause. I am definitely looking forward to future collaborations.

After the show did you go to bed knowing that you achieved what you had planned?

Yes, it did but I hope the next edition will be bigger and better.

So what’s next in line?

Since Own The Runway is an annual event, I can’t wait to host it again Next year in April. It’s going to be one of a kind. Stay tuned.

The post OWN THE RUNWAY FASHION SHOW: WHY WE CHOSE MOTHERS appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

Going by customer reviews, Shuya Sanitary Pads is a sure guarantee that your time of the month can be a little easier, more manageable and even enjoyable.

“Ever since I discovered Shuya line of pads, I totally switched and never looked back. All of my period problems seem to disappear – at least the ones related to the pads. No more leaking, no more overflow and no more wetness discomfort,” says Valentine, a regular user of the sanitary towels.

“Shuya Pads have solved all these problems! They absorb way more than you can even imagine and they don’t stick on you while wearing them, and I can confidently wear them at work or out in public and not have to worry about ‘red stains’ on my behind!! These pads are awesome, and if you’ve never tried them before, I highly recommend them!”

Valentine is not the only happy client, another satisfied customer based in Nairobi says her period worries are gone thanks to Shuya Pads.

“Since I discovered Shuya, I never want to miss them in the supermarket where I shop. I had very painful cramps but now the pains have subsided. While travelling with periods, I don’t have to worry anymore,” she said.

“I tried different brands but each was worse than the other. But ever since I started using Shuya, I never thought I would sleep without checking my bedsheets. I sleep like a baby. Good riddance to stains, it is almost unbelievable,” said the other happy client who has used Shuya pads and panty liners for over two years.

Shuya is very comfortable and comes with a dry feeling, adds the client who is fascinated by the minty freshness.

“You forget you are in your red days. I enjoy the freshness; no more infections, milder cramps and at some point in the day, I completely stop cramping and my favourite is the minty freshness. It’s like the pad is giving me, the ‘I’ve got you’ nod, like you’d give your bestie,” she told Woman Kenya.

The mint comes with a calming, fresh and relaxing vibe, she explains.

“I even first lay down to feel the mint properly. I’m grateful. If you see me use anything else, please slap me in the back. They are so comfortable. No burning sensation or the itching. They are absorbent and

don’t leak. No odors and the feel of mint is so heavenly. And the packaging is also attractive,” Shuya regular customer added.

Elsewhere, another user’s discomfort is completely gone.

“I have been having issues with different pads. I had lots of rushes until a friend recommended Shuya anion pads and panty liners. I have never regretted anything,” she told Woman Kenya.

What makes Shuya Pads unique?

Shuya Pads are organic sanitary pads made of natural materials that are very friendly to the skin and designed according to the flow. Additionally, they contain an anion strip that has numerous health benefits such as improving immunity, killing harmful bacteria and maintaining clean and comfortable plate. Shuya Pads accelerates oxygen circulation between private parts and outside area and has won good names like ‘vitamin of the air’ and ‘longevity element.’

The pads also have anti-bacterial capability, relieve tension, reduces irritation, removes bad odour and improve endocrine and enhances metabolism.

What shapes and sizes are available for Shuya Pads?

Shuya manufactures Shuya Panty Liners 155mm, Shuya Light Day use 245mm, Shuya Day/Night use 285mm, Shuya Night use 330mm and Shuya Ultra Long 410mm which is also recommended for maternity. Shuya does not manufacture tampons.

Are the pads ideal for maternity use and for teens?

Shuya ultra-long 410mm is designed for maternity use. The pad is highly absorbent and very comfortable for nursing mothers. For teenagers and people with light flow, we highly recommend Shuya Light Day use 245mm because it is small comfortable.

I experience very heavy flow, is Shuya Pads still ideal for me?

For heavy flow, we recommend 330mm or the super long 410mm Shuya Sanitary pads.

Can Shuya Pads cure painful periods?

Continued use of Shuya Pads improves endocrine and enhances metabolism thus reducing the pain associated with periods.

Where can I buy Shuya Pads in Kenya?

Shuya is listed in over 50 physical supermarket outlets such as Foodplus, Cleanshelf, Budget Supermarkets and Mulleys. You can order Shuya Online from Kasha Kenya and Jumia. We are at an advanced stage to have it on Glovo.

Who is the franchise owner and main supplier of Shuya Napkin Pads in Kenya?

Shuya Pads is supplied by Emitrican Enterprises Ltd whose proprietor is Emily Wanja Njeru. Her main business partner is Kasha Kenya, a leading Online markeplace for feminine health and beauty products in Kenya.

How much does one pack of Shuya Pads cost?

Our recommended retail price for Supermarkets is Sh155 for the sanitary pads and Sh170 for the panty liners.

Is it safe to switch from my regular sanitary towel to Shuya Pads?

Yes, it is safe to switch to Shuya products because they are made of natural materials and thus do not have the side effects associated with synthetic materials.

Should I stock up my pads for a year instead of buying every month?

The shelf date for Shuya products is usually two years from the date of manufacture and the expiry dates are printed on the product.

How often should I change my Shuya Pads?

Its recommended that you change sanitary pads after every four hours.

Can prolonged use of Shuya products affect my sexual reproductive health?

Yes, the anion strip balances the pH in the vagina thus improving sexual satisfaction.

How can I know that my Shuya Pads is not counterfeit?

All the products are ISO certified and each packer contains a free vaginal test kit

Can I do business with Shuya Pads?

Please contact Emitrican Enterprises Ltd marketing office via emitrican1@gmail.com or contact Kasha Kenya via ray@kasha.com for more details.

The post SHUYA PADS HAVE COMPLETELY CHANGED MY LIFE appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

In a tweet, KPLC congratulated Yeda and expressed hope in her leadership.

“We are excited to announce the appointment of M/s. Vivienne Yeda, OGW, as the chairman, Board of Directors. She is the first woman to hold this position we look forward to holding this position. We look forward to her stewardship, and that of the entire Board, as we pursue our growth journey “

The Masters of Law holder served as the Director of the General East African Development Band before her appointment. She was awarded African Banker of the Year in 2014 for her exemplary work at EADB.

Yeda replaces replaces Mahboub Maalim.

According to 2017 KIM Leadership and Diversity Research report, representation of women on boards stands at 21 per cent up from 12 per cent in 2012. The same report identified that only 4 of the 52 listed companies sampled had female chairpersons, which is equavalent to 7.7 per cent representation.

Kenya’s Mary Njoroge to officiate at Women’s World Cup in 2023

World Football governing body Fifa has earmarked Kenya’s Mary Njoroge as a prospective woman Assistant Referee candidate in Fifa Women’s World Cup 2023 which will be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand. Mary is among 156 referees and assistant referees who have been named for the international showpiece.

The game changer has made huge strides in her career and remains to be a sports woman to reckon with. She was selected to officiate at the Fifa Women’s World Cup that happened in France last year.

She was also called to officiate at the eighth Africa Women’s Championships finals happening in Equatorial Guinea. Last year, Njoroge also made history upon officiating the 2019 U17 Africa cup of nations.

I will not withdraw the surrogacy Bill: Says MP Millie Mabona

HOTO: COURTESY

Mbita Member of Parliament Millie Adhiambo has vowed to stand by her surrogacy bill which elicited negative reactions from a section of prolife activists.

Taking to social media, the outspoken MP sent a stern warning to the demonstrators saying, “…I am withdrawing nothing, nada nono zero…”  

In Kenya, surrogacy is still shrouded in secrecy. To date, no law governs surrogacy and assisted reproduction, however the Reproductive Healthcare Bill 2014 surrogacy can happen informally subject to mutual agreement.

Through this bill, Millie addresses In-Vitro fertilization (IVF) pricing, piling cases surrounding surrogacy and quacks elimination. The IVF pricing presently stands at nearly Sh1 million; many couples have resorted to having the procedure done abroad.

Meanwhile, there have been cases of men eloping with surrogate mothers. According to the proposed bill, such cases will be addressed by a body called Assisted Reproductive Technology Authority.

Black Brazilian ballerina graces Brazilian Vogue cover

PHOTO: COURTESY

Ingrid Silva is the first black Brazillian ballet dancer to appear on Vogue Magazine’s cover. The ballerina celebrated this milestone with her follwers on social media .

“Dreams are possible! Representation is very important in every way…That’s exactly what this cover is. I am representing black women, Brazilian, ballerina (for those who dream or have dreamed) I am making history by being the first black ballerina on the cover of Vogue…” said the co-founder of Blacks in Ballet, a platform that highlights stories of black ballet dancers.

Silva is the founder of a women’s digital platform dubbed EmpowHer New York through which women share their career journeys.

The ballerina has also been ranked among the top 100 under 40 influential women according to Mipad 2020.

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