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{
    "id": 1523835,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1523835/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 71,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Sen. Kibwana",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 277,
        "legal_name": "Kibwana Kivutha",
        "slug": "kibwana-kivutha"
    },
    "content": "National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), which have collectively improved women’s access to capital and fostered economic independence. Regarding legislative agenda, we have enacted the Sexual Offences Act, the Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act and the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act, all which are pivotal in protecting women’s rights and addressing Gender Based Violence (GBV). Furthermore, gender desks in police stations and the establishment of GBV recovery centres in hospitals are tangible steps in supporting survivors. Mr. Speaker, Sir, I am proud to highlight the impact of the work of the Kenya Women Senators Association (KEWOSA). It has been on the frontline mentoring women Members of County Assemblies (MCAs), having so far mentored women leaders from seven counties. The initiative has empowered these women to effectively engage in legislative processes and leadership roles, strengthening the pipeline of future female leaders. Furthermore, KEWOSA has played a pivotal role in supporting women petty offenders who are unable to afford bail by facilitating payment of their bail amounts. The compassionate initiative not only restores the dignity of these women but also ensures that minor economic hardship do not unjustly rob them of their freedom. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the women Senators for their unwavering support and invaluable contributions to these programmes. Their collective efforts have made a meaningful difference in advancing women’s empowerment and gender equality across the nation. While we acknowledge these strides, we must also confront the persistent challenges. The two-thirds gender rule remains an unfulfilled constitutional requirement and GBV continues to rob women and girls of their dignity and safety. Economic disparities still limit women’s access to land ownership and formal financial systems. As we mark this important day, I call upon the House and all stakeholders to- (1) Expedite the full implementation of the two-thirds gender rule through legislative and policy action; (2) Strengthen women’s economic empowerment by expanding access to affordable credit and financial literacy programmes; (3) Invest in mentorship and leadership training for young women, supported by KEWOSA and other mentorship platforms; (4) Enhance the fight against GBV by increasing funding for shelters, expanding gender desks, and ensuring swift justice for survivors; and, (5) Amplify the voices of women in climate action, digital innovation, and close the gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects, as well as ensure equal opportunities in emerging industries. Empowering women means strengthening our nation. Let today serve not only as a celebration, but also as a renewed call to action. Let us move from counting women in leadership to making women in leadership count. Happy International Women’s Day."
}