Transforming Leadership, Changing lives The value women bring to leadership and governance 2 3

Laboso proves that women are up to the task BY JAMES KIPROTICH

or Dr Joyce Cherono Laboso, being a politician Fwas one of the least things that crossed her mind. She was at home with her profession. But one day, the death of her sister changed everything. She says: “Sometimes things will happen to make you discover a new passion. And though it might come late in life, it can propel you to new heights of satisfaction and help you impact positively on fellow citizens.” Laboso, 55, says she discovered her passion after the death of her big sister, Lornah Laboso, through a plane accident in 2008. As she mourned her sister, the now the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, says the elders had other ideas. They saw her as the perfect replacement for Lornah who was credited for inspiring change in . In her community, it is not easy to say no to elders. One has to go by their decision and their blessings carry a lot of weight. “I knew my sister’s shoes were too big to be filled, but I agreed to the elders’ counsel,” she recalls. In the ensuing by-election later that year, she registered a major feat. Not only did she emerge number one, but she also defeated a former army brigadier Dr Joyce Laboso 4

who enjoyed the support of the the country. infrastructure. That is how people President, . “Every woman legislator who connect their ways and become This, according to the deputy has faced a male competitor one.” speaker, was a testimony that knows what it means to fight and As she savours her success women power was indeed at its win. You are faced with all odds on locally, her star is also shining peak. the way. I have ensured that the at the international arena. She She says, “I was just plucked voice of the woman is adequately is currently the chair, African, from the lecture room at university heard,” she says. Caribbean and Pacific states, to face a male-dominated political Her late sister was the first European Union Parliamentary terrain. My sister had achieved her to defeat male politicians in the Assembly, which is abbreviated as best but I was not quite sure if I area and she has continued that ACP-EU Assembly. was equal to the task. At the polls, winning streak. Last year, Citihope, an I garnered a comfortable margin international women focus against the army boss.” Inspire women organization, singled her out as That victory set on path for “This victory helped to inspire one of the three top women who better tidings in politics and she women that it was all possible. were creating impact in society. has not looked back. Other women who later came But not all is easy sailing. As As soon as she joined in followed the example we had a speaker in ’s biggest Parliament, she regularly featured shown. Raising the bar in regard and diverse Parliament since in the list of the legislators who to achieving what people want, independence, Laboso does not acted as temporary speakers. especially women, is a major have it easy all the time. She had marked her territory and boost.” For example, early this year proved that she had what it takes One of her achievements is legislators splashed water on her for high profile positions. promoting sustainable peace during a heated parliamentary “I decided to use this as a along the Bomet-Nyamira border. discussion. It was a tough moment learning point in my political For long time, the area was known but it did not dampen her spirit. career. First, I earned the trust for armed conflict triggered by “Such moments give you an of legislators from the different cattle rustling and competition opportunity to stand your ground. political divide. Two, I realized over resources. It hardens your resolve to stand up that this rare opportunity was a “In any armed conflict setup, to be counted.” stepping stone to new heights in women and girls are the most Her positions at the August Parliament and life. We should all affected. For years, we had seen House have been preparing her learn to appreciate the different uncalled for bloodshed between for a bigger office. She feels she is positions we hold. You learn a the two communities. One of my ready for an even bigger role come lot and prepare yourself for new vows as I joined politics was to 2017. She is going for the Bomet offices.” ensure that the two communities County gubernatorial position. Come the next elections in 2013, live in lasting peace,” she says. “First, I want to challenge the Laboso easily sailed through and Her dream has come true and notion that only male politicians was subsequently elected as the the two communities enjoy peace can be county governors. Women Deputy Speaker. Her work at the with business thriving along their are not there to fill the gaps as last Parliament had prepared her borders. mere running mates. We should all for this position, ranking her as the Laboso is also credited for run for the top job. We do not only woman with the highest position in the construction of the Sotik- have the numbers but also the Parliament. The Senate’s speaker Borabu road which connects the strength to go for it and achieve and deputy are both men. two communities. The road has the potential of our counties,” says Since 2008 when she joined the greatly encouraged and improved the mother of three. political landscape, Laboso has economic activities in the area. She adds: “This is the time made many gains. She says she has “In most cases, the easiest for us (women) to believe in our encouraged equal representation way to silence inter-community power. Let us all put in the faith in a for women in her constituency and wrangles is to have an enabling possible tomorrow.” 5 Zani, the champion of girls’ education

Dr Agnes Zani

BY VERONICA CHEROP even those with the potential of “It was unfortunate. It still is as it rowing up in Kwale and excelling in their studies, were is common in the coastal region. The Mombasa counties, Dr plucked from class and married economically challenged parents GAgnes Zani had first-hand off by the poor parents who were happy to get daughters whom account of what girls face in their wanted the little bride price that they saw as a source of income in formative years. was offered by men many times terms of bride price,” says Zani. She recalls how many girls, older than their daughters. This childhood experience has 6

continued to shape her approaches is to invest in their people. The to life. In her university days, she The fact that I motion was to ensure that counties did assignments and wrote papers was a lecturer invest in the people through based on this issue of poverty and at the University kitties,” says the senator. early marriages. of , a leading For her Kwale County, such a Clearly, her work was cut out centre of excellence, kitty will help the locals establish very early in her life. As she went other small enterprises apart through school up to attaining a shows that giving from relying on the traditional Doctorate degree, Dr Zani knew girls an opportunity to tourism ventures. Already, some of that her mission was to champion study opens doors and such support is showing signs of the cause of such girls and help opportunities.” success. them realize their dreams. The growth of various savings -Dr Agnes Zani, “Through various fronts and groups in the county has helped activism movements, I was doing Nominated Senator ODM women and girls lift disentangle something for the girls in Kwale. themselves from shackles of The Orange Democratic Movement poverty. The holding of the first nomination in 2013 gave me the ever African Confederation of groups, especially girls, is the platform to help the girls,” says the Co-operative Savings and Credit establishment of a university in former sociology lecturer at the Associations in the County was each county. University of Nairobi. a show of confidence that this She believes this is the quickest As Senator, she says one “of initiatives work. way to address the regional my urgent duties was to make The Senator observes: “Such inequities which have taken root in sure such girls remained in school meetings help to demonstrate the country for far too long. and finished their education. This that there is great potential in our is the only way to tackle poverty, “Some regions lag behind people. They only need champions since the benefits of education are because centres of learning were to make their voice heard not just enormous.” located far thus limiting their politically but economically.” access to education. For instance, Dr Zani says she will not rest The Moi Girls Nairobi, University Kwale did not have a university. until girls get to study. She will of Nairobi and Oxford university Kwale represents many regions in fight for equal opportunities both alumna believes despite the the country which did not boast at the family and national levels Constitution opening up the space of such institutions of higher until she wins the battle. for women, they cannot wait for learning. It is easy to see why some opportunities. They have to seize “The fact that I was a lecturer at counties top the academic charts the moment and become leaders. the University of Nairobi, a leading since they had opportunities at the centre of excellence, shows that door step.” “We are not there yet. We can giving girls an opportunity to study celebrate for the strides made so Another motion that she moved opens doors and opportunities.” far but we must never lose focus was on the need for counties to of the distance to be walked. We Her father, Zachariah Zani have an investment kitty. This was must be willing to fight for more and mother Teresa Zani were borne out of the realization that space and true representation. It distinguished educationists in most counties, despite receiving must never be a favour for women the country and Kiswahili authors huge chunks of national funding, leaders,” advises Zani. whose books made it to the national were apportioning very little for curriculum for decades. They investments. Dr Zani believes once the played a greater role to who she is struggle she began is completed, now. And she believes parents are the people of Kwale will give her key to girls’ empowerment. Invest in their people a more senior position to fight “What was taking root is that One of the strategies she bigger battles not just for them but counties were only supposed to for the entire Coast region. has pushing for to address undertake development projects access to education by and pay salaries. Yet, one of the marginalized communities and fundamental functions of counties 7

So near, yet too far

Dorothy Nditi Muchungu

BY AWC CORRESPONDENT ever woman governor. by virtue of being deputy to the hen Embu Governor Dorothy Nditi Muchungu governor. Martin Wambora was nearly claimed that history. If the But governor Wambora fought Wimpeached by the impeachment had been upheld by his way through the courts to Members of County Assembly the Court, then Muchungu would protect his seat and he is still (MCAs) in 2014, Kenyans waited have ascended to the position in office despite the Senate with bated breath to have the first 8

upholding the impeachment by resources can be rechanneled to across the county. That is the only the MCAs. address other pressing needs. way we can have identifiable role The prospect of having Dorothy Her efforts are paying off. Most models to inspire others in the at the top excited many. Women families have access to water county.” leaders and gender activists and they are now reporting fewer She says all her initiatives urged her to take the mantle. For waterborne diseases, she says. are geared towards bringing real a while she acted as governor Her water initiative is entering new change to the lives of people of while Wambora was fighting for his phase with more families set to Embu County. reinstatement in court. benefit. “We are preparing our people “Though it was a rare window to seize opportunities both at that opened, I was prepared for I am keen on the county and national levels. the challenge. I strongly believe I improving the For me, I am doing my level was equal to the task. Why would standards of best to contribute to the proper anyone question my ability? functioning of this devolved Through this opportunity I could education in the county. system of governance.” have ably demonstrated why Education is the only But Muchungu attributes her women should be governors and way to unlock the ability to deliver on her functions to perhaps increase their chances of potential in our youth the management skills she gained being elected in the next General in her previous engagements. Election,” says Muchungu. and enable them to compete nationally for The former high school teacher Having acted as a governor for had a stellar performance when she a short moment, she says more opportunities. sat at the Gachoka Constituency than ever convinced that women -Dorothy Nditi Muchungu Development Fund and the Tana should go for the seat come 2017 Deputy Governor Embu County Water Services Board. elections. “It is achievable”, she “What these two bodies says. inculcated in me is the value of Dorothy, who hails from the prioritizing issues and the prudent far-flung Mbeere region, says she use of resources. In all my current has remained conscious of her The deputy governor has also initiatives, I strive to align and people’s three key desires: poverty initiated projects aimed at boosting utilize resources according to alleviation, access to clean water, the standards of education in the priorities. That is the best way to and good roads. county. She is doing this through uplift lives and create change for The irony is that while the locals construction, renovation and the electorate.” complain of access to water, Embu equipping of schools. She is currently the secretary County is home to some of biggest “I am keen on improving the general of the deputy governors’ dams that contribute electricity to standards of education in the forum and also a member of the national grid. county. Education is the only way the Kenya Network of Women “It is not fair that most of our to unlock the potential in our youth Governors. She sees these forums people don’t have access to piped and enable them to compete as a launching pad to higher water. The basic should be that we nationally for opportunities. offices. should be drinking from the dams We are helping schools that “I believe women can be able and the rivers in the county. Our were champions in yesteryears governors. Women governors can rivers have never dried.” to rediscover their potential and deliver where others are failing the This is an issue that Muchungu shine.” country,’’ she says confidently. has taken on as one of her The county is also establishing Though she is not keen to talk deliverables to the people of Embu centres of excellence aimed at about the office she is going to County. She is spearheading a promoting good performance. vie for in the next elections, the campaign to have them connected former Kyeni Girls’ High School “The talk for good results in to clean water. Her belief is that and Kenyatta University student academics is not enough. What access to clean water will cut believes her current work will I aspire for is that we have the significantly money spend to position her for something come centres of excellence spread treat waterborne diseases. These 20 17. 9

Pushing to the limit the agenda of women and girls

Fatuma Mohamed Achani

BY JAMES KIPROTICH AND believes the work she has done believes, believe will be the VERONICA CHEROP so far in projecting the concerns people’s verdict. Her concern of her people and pushing for the about the welfare of women and ‘There will be a woman realization of the rights of women girls is informed by the sorry state president in Kenya after we the and girls has proved to the people the two are in. current leaders prove to society that women leadership is valuable. Fatuma says many girls in the that women are good enough “The people will one day say the county drop out of school due to steer this country to greater Deputy Governor was a champion to early pregnancies and early heights” of women and girls’ rights in the marriages. community and with the Governor, One of the major causes of this hese are the words of Kwale they worked very hard to uplift the development is the high poverty County Deputy Governor, living standards of the people of levels that push young girls into TFatuma Mohamed Achani, Kwale County.” early marriages. Yet, Kwale County one of the nine females holding This, the 36-year-old lawyer has many resources including that position in the country. Fatuma and graduate of Moi University titanium, exotic beaches, and high 10

class hotels that should make come up strategic interventions easy job. In her journey in politics, poverty history. seems to have been shaped when Fatuma sees it as a man’s world. But the irony is that in the she was working at the Federation “When you compete with men, midst of these resources, over of Women Lawyers (FIDA Kenya). they turn violent when the going 50 per cent of the population While at FIDA, she was involved gets tough or use women against live in poverty “because previous in training the community on the their fellow women. regimes failed to come up with Constitution and women leaders She thinks the things that are relevant programmes to address on how to win political seats. affecting election of women are: the economic challenges facing Culture, Party, Tribe and Money. the county”, she says. My governor Perceptions, cultural beliefs and Fatuma says it because of has given me a lack of financial stability in society this prevailing situation she lot of support hinder women from being elected got interested in politics as a in doing my work. In into high positions including the platform to helping her people. “I the next elections, I will presidency, she laments. decided to go for the position of For her, the down-to-earth deputy governor to help uplift the be his running mate approaches to issues, honesty, a education standards of girls, by once again. After that I clean track record, and previous making sure that those from poor will think of going for a engagement with the people at the families can also access education higher position.” grass roots level helped her sail through bursaries. through with less difficulty. Since I and the governor took She says male support is over the leadership of the County, -Fatuma Mohamed Achani, Kwale also critical for women to make we have ensured that children who County Deputy Governor, headway in politics. The support of qualify to join national schools her husband, Ali Kanga, who is also receive full sponsorship. This is to her political adviser and campaign motivate and encourage others to strategist, came in handy during excel in education.” her campaigns. This contributed Fatuma Mohamed Achani, to her victory. Kwale County Deputy Her other focus area is These experiences greatly helped Governor, reducing maternal mortality by to prepare her for the high office of Still, it was not easy. “There putting in place systems that are deputy governor. are people who naturally have low able to prevent these deaths from “As an advocate dealing with confidence in women leaders and occurring in the first place. She has family and succession matters, there are other leaders who are done this by ensuring that there constitutional law, human rights not ready for transformational are fully functional maternities in law, alternative dispute resolution changes; they believe women every dispensary in the county. and commercial and criminal law, shouldn’t be anywhere near the She says she has ensured this I was exposed to nearly all the high table.” happens by pushing for increased challenges in the society and how Fatuma hopes come 2017, the budgetary allocation to the to deal with them,” says Fatuma. residents of Kwale County would healthcare sector. These leadership skills did not have seen what she has done and In addition to the improved reveal themselves now. She was assess her favourably. She says maternity serves, Fatuma’s and the the chairperson of Kwea (‘climbing she going to run for the same governor’s leadership is credited the hill’) civil society that deals with position in 2017 because she has with setting aside funds to help grass roots and a member of the to complete her projects which are women improve their incomes board of management of several currently running. from farming. In this regard, schools, all in Kwale County. These “My governor has given me a they are availing the women with positions and interactions helped lot of support in doing my work. free tractors and farm inputs to her appreciate the needs of her In the next elections, I will be his improve agricultural productivity. people and how best to tackle running mate once again. After So far so good, she says. Her them. that I will think of going for a higher understanding of the problems But she says politics is not an position.” afflicting women and the need to 11

in advancing the youth and women agenda. She has introduced six bills over the last three years with the Senator shows the most notable piece of legislation being the County Government Amendment Bill (No.2) 2014. value of women The bill seeks to ensure that County Governments only sit after all the nominated members have leadership been gazetted and sworn on the same day as is the practice in the National Assembly and the Senate. According to the Senator, this move will ensure that women and youths nominated to these assemblies compete on an equal basis with their male counterparts for leadership positions in the Assemblies. Wangari who is among young legislators in the senate, is credited for pushing the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC) to facilitate lactating women parliamentarians and staff to enjoy a conducive environment to look after their babies. This she says was a bold move that no other Member of Parliament has done since independence and is designed to address discrimination that lactating mothers faced in Martha Wangari Parliament. “As a result of my bold step, the BY FAITH MUIRURI an independent thinker. PSC resolved that effective July She is also the Deputy 1, 2013 that all lactating mothers hen her courage was Secretary, Kenya Women under the Parliamentary service recently put to test Parliamentarian Association commission would be facilitated Wthrough expulsion from (KEWOPA) and serves as an to carry with them their infants the UDF party over her alleged executive member on the who are one year old or less and a association with the Jubilee Kenya Young Parliamentarians care-giver whenever they travel on government, she rubbished the Association Executive committee. parliamentary business within the move and termed it illegal. This Further she sits in the country.” is Senator Martha Wangari, who committee on Land and Natural This she says has benefited both has been able to stake her rightful resources and the County Public lactating parliamentarians and claim in the political arena. Accounts and Investments members of Staff in Parliament. In the senate, where she is committee. the vice chair of the Senate But one things is true about Legislative agenda committee on Labour and Social Senator Wangari; she has She has introduced the Self Help welfare, she has proved herself as remained true to her conviction Associations Bill 2015 which is set 12

to benefit both the youth and payment of standard and special one admission receive their right the women at the constituency contributions. to education as enshrined in level. The Bill seeks to provide She says that the penalty as Constitution of Kenya (2010). the necessary legal framework imposed by the Act serves as a In addition, the senator has for the registration of self-help deterrent to defaulters who may also sought a statement regarding associations and the necessary wish to continue remitting funds. the deteriorating medical care mechanisms for their regulation. Currently defaulters are fined five standards with specific reference “The self-help associations times the premiums due plus the to quack doctors. In the statement, have helped the women and the actual premium. she wants the government to give youth of this country to pool their The Bill is currently before the statistical figures of the genuine meagre resources for the common Senate Standing Committee for medical practitioners and the goal of regenerating wealth,” she Public Participation before it is quacks. explains. brought back to the house for the She has donated books She says that the Senate second reading stage. and sanitary towels to several Committee on Labor and Social schools and is currently drilling a Welfare will soon be conducting As a result borehole for a community in Gilgil public participation forums across of my bold constituency. the counties to enable the public step, the PSC “This will serve thousands to give their input before the bill of residents and comes with a is presented in the house for the resolved that effective 100,000 litres storage tank and second reading. July 1, 2013 that all helps to keep children in school by The legislator has also lactating mothers under strengthening the school feeding proposed an amendment to the the Parliamentary programmes. Employment Act with a view to service commission But it has not been success ensuring that employees who after success. She has had to adopt a child pursuant to section would be facilitated to confront several challenges aw 154 of the Children Act qualify for carry with them their well. Wangari says that the bar leave. infants who are one year code for women in Parliament is The Employment Act presently old or less and a care- generally higher than that of men. provides for maternity and giver whenever they ”The increased numbers in paternity leave, to biological representation gave the public a children, but does not provide for travel on parliamentary view that women issues should be adoptive leave. This means that business within the executed better. We are therefore where an employee adopts a child, country.” under constant pressure and male the employee may not have the Martha Wangari, Senator UDF MPs take the chance to bash and opportunity to care for and nurture label us flower girls in parliament.” the child as the employee would She says that this is quite have in the case of a biological demoralizing especially for the first child. The Senator has also sought time members who are working The Bill which, is now in the many statements in the house tirelessly to fulfil their mandate. second reading stage seeks to and currently wants to establish But she calls on women to ensure that the rights of adopted the criteria used by the ministry learn to work together and create children are safeguarded and of education to enrol pupils who a support group. She notes that that an opportunity for parental sat for KCPE in 2014 to secondary the nature of our politics requires care and protection is availed to schools. She also wants the resources and thus women must adopted children on their adoption. Ministry to explain how the learn how to fundraise and take A first time legislator, Wangari enrolment criteria compare with the forefront in political parties has been pushing to amend the previous years and the steps the if they are to make an impact the National Hospital Insurance ministry is taking to ensure that next election. Fund law to reduce the penalties those who missed out on form imposed by the Act for late 13

Peris Tobiko

win, the votes she garnered helped her to strengthen her resolve to seek political office in the coming years. Tobiko defies odds “I think the idea of a woman leader was still new to my people,” she said of her 2007 loss. “But the to become the first votes I got gave me the confidence to try again.” After her loss, she went on to Maasai MP initiate development projects in BY FAITH MUIRURI threatened to put a curse on Kajiado, including drilling boreholes anyone who supported her bid. to provide water for residents of olitics is not for the faint “The women on the other hand the semi-arid area. To her, these hearted. This is true for became jittery and were not sure initiatives gave her an edge over PPeris Tobiko, who had to if I had made the right move,” adds her opponents during the 2013 summon all her energies and the MP during a recent interview. elections. strategies to clinch the Kajiado Her campaign agenda focused East Parliamentary seat. However, Tobiko managed to on empowering women and youth. Battle lines were drawn from pull a surprise by capturing the And today she has embarked on a the onset. Maasai elders on the seat to become the first Maasai number of development projects to one hand “cursed” her after she woman to be elected in the meet these very election pledges. trounced seven TNA aspirants in parliamentary history. At the Constituency level, the the primaries. This was her second attempt MP has started a Kshs 1 million The elders maintained that it after she unsuccessfully motivational trophy for schools. was against tradition for women contested for the parliamentary “Any school that leads in national to eye leadership positions and seat in 2007. Although she did not exams at the Divisional level, they 14

receive Ksh 1 million from the CDF very good. But she has learnt to be kitty.” Tobiko has also embarked on firm on pertinent issues in the She says that schools in the projects to improve the roads in Constituency. “Trying to be too soft Constituency are now competing her constituency and takes credit will not help you in leadership. You for the Ksh 1 million trophy for the completion of Sultan need to be firm, focused and have and these has helped to uplift Hamud -Mashuru road, Ilpolosat- your own direction first before you standards of education in the area. KAG University-Kajiado road; can give others direction. You need to know what you want to achieve “Once they get the one million, Ololtepes- Sholinke road and because there are too many the schools are able to finance Sholinke-Erankau roads. advisers,” she notes. projects of their choice. Instead of Contributions in National building a classroom for them, they Assembly Her message to fellow women is compete for the money to put up At the National Assembly, she to go for competitive seats instead the project. This has excited them seats in the committees of Labour of waiting for the affirmative action a lot and uplifted the standards of and Social Welfare; National ones. education in the constituency,” she Cohesion and Equal Opportunities. She notes that most women explains. “I have contributed to a number have been boxed to a corner. The MP has also been able of bills namely the water bill, the “When they offer themselves for to educate many children to the Transfer of Prisoners Bill and the leadership, men tell them to run for university level and thereafter National Social Security Fund bill.” that special seat, as though they do not qualify for other positions. secure jobs for them. She has also sought a statement I believe if women are empowered “I have not just stopped at from the Departmental Committee economically, men will be the ones educating them but ensuring on Transport, Public Works and calling for affirmative action.” they get jobs,” she says and cites Housing regarding the effects of Equity Bank, the Teachers Service the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) The MP says that women must Commission and the Public Service on her constituents. also learn the art of mobilizing resources to be able to mount Commission among institutions “We need to address the social successful campaigns. “Women that have helped to boost this impact of the project before it takes aspiring for elective seats must initiative. off because the railway line cuts mobilize enough resources and be Strategy across a pastoral area inhabited ready to solicit for votes just like The MP has further ensured by livestock and the wildlife and is their male counterparts,” she says. that locals benefit from contracts likely to affect livelihoods.” Come the next elections, she awarded under CDF. “This seeks The MP at the same time says is going to use her development to encourage the community that challenges are many adding track record to reclaim her seat. “I to diversify their sources of that just because she is a woman, will be banking on my development livelihood. Instead of relying solely people expect her to be very soft. record to defend my seat. I have on livestock, they can still prosper “Anybody who has a financial been asking the electorate to as entrepreneurs. It is very exciting problem expects you to resolve it.” when you see the Maasai engaging judge my development record She notes that most people in construction work,” she adds. against the campaign pledges that have always tried to blackmail Through UWEZO funding, I made. I want them to do their her especially in relation to the own assessment based on what the legislator has been able to position she takes over issues. encourage a number of women I had promised and what I have “Sometimes people want to and youth to start businesses. “I delivered.” dictate to you and run the show have seen beneficiaries prospering She is confident that she will on your behalf. Even in instances among them young men who have win the seat with a bigger margin where I need to give direction, started a petrol station while come 2017. “I have managed to set there are some male “supporters” others are planting tree seedlings the bar very high now and inject who still believe that women and selling them.” a new kind of leadership which I should step aside regardless of strongly believe, gives me an edge The legislator points out these their positions and watch as women are doing very well with the over my opponents,” she says in an things unfold as opposed to being upbeat tone. money and the repayment mode is an active participants.” 15

Turning fortunes for

Makueni women andof Parliament girls and Assistant Minister, Mwau adores the subject of participatory leadership. She says this is the only progressive way to do things. “For many years, we have lived in the shadow of a male dominated and biased society. Women have successfully been denied the space to participate in critical decision making processes. This is what I have fought all my years as a believer of gender inclusiveness in society,” she says. Her nomination as the running-mate and subsequent election as Deputy Governor was a reward for her many years of dedication towards women rights. It was also an icing on the cake for her efforts to show that Adelina Mwau women have what it takes to hold senior decision making positions. “Even though I had been a BY GILBERT MUTUNE oppressive constitution. crusader for equal participation, I “We actively participated had been a victim of a patriarchal hen those who have in campaigning for a reformed system. May be, it was the price for decades pushed for Constitution because we believed I was paying for challenging Wdemocratization and it was not fair to women and the the status quo. The office of empowerment of nation at large. We remained the deputy governor was an are feted, one woman who is not faithful to opportunity for me to intensify likely to miss on the list is 62-year- my advocacy on equality in Mwau’s name and contribution old Mrs Adelina Mwau, the Deputy national affairs.” is also easily recognizable in Governor, Makueni County. countries such as South Africa, As she started her job more She stood out among those Uganda, Sudan and Tanzania, than two years ago, Mwau’s work who went against the grain even indicating her appeal beyond was cut out. She knew that she when it meant risking it all to Kenya in regard to championing was expected to use her position fight for the rights of women, gender rights. to, among other things, to the marginalized and oppose an advance the wellbeing of women. A former nominated Member 16

She chose to direct her energies Most of Makueni is dry and to irrigate crops in this otherwise on school girls. Her intention was lack of water is a perennial dry region. Indeed, more and – and still is – to start them off in problem. Over the years, women more people are getting hooked the right path while they are still and girls trekked long distances onto the water supply for the young. in search of water, which made small agri-business ventures. “Women start drifting towards them not only waste a lot of Mwau says her small the unequal sector during their time that could have been spent contribution in this direction is learning days. For example, girls doing other economically viable also improving the food situation who lack adequate supply of activities; but also exposed them in the county and incomes for sanitary towels are easily forced to dangers. most households. to stop schooling because of The other negative “Families are not facing the psychological effects itconsequence of this scarcity of hunger now as was in the causes. This means that we past. Households are boasting are likely to end up with more Families are of improved incomes and boys completing school as not facing purchasing power.” compared to girls who fall on hunger now Still, a lot remains to be the way. Obviously, this lays a as was in the past. done. But the Master of Arts foundation and disadvantages in Development Studies from girls’ participation in the social, Households are boasting Hague, Netherlands believes economic and political spheres of improved incomes creating positive impact and of the society.” and purchasing power.” setting examples will build a To address this challenge, Adelina Mwau, the Deputy strong legacy for her. the deputy governor started Governor, Makueni County. “We may have faced the Menstruation Management challenges in the past but I am and Hygiene Practices in rural not willing to be defined by such primary and secondary schools circumstances,” says Mwau. in Makueni County. Under the water was the high number of initiative, girls are provided school lessons missed or drop- The next elections in 2017 sanitary pads to enable them go outs among the girls as they went are key to her. But she prefers through the cycle without stress. to search for this commodity. to keep her decision close to her chest. For now, she just wants to The results have been Since Mwau’s intervention, serve her people. impressive. A higher number of school-going girls no longer girls from poor backgrounds have abandon classes to search for The other thing she is doing is been able to remain in school, water. This is having a positive educating, particularly women, with episodes of absenteeism knock-off effect on theirto acquire Identity Cards and significantly reduced. academic performance. register as voters. She believes this is the only weapon they have She knows that keeping girls “We have ensured access to elect leaders who will help in school longer is a good thing to water through the sinking of them achieve their desire for a for the country as they are likely boreholes. The result has been better life. to become productive and ensure that women now spend most quality lives for themselves and time in their small businesses She believes she has done a their families. while girls are now reporting to lot for the residents of Makueni school daily. This is great for our and the people of Kenya, but she Besides promoting enrolment people.” wants them to judge her work. and retention of girls in schools, access to clean water for the The boreholes are also driving “It is them who will judge and residents of the County is another up the agricultural potential in the decide what I will get. I am serving of her key projects. county as people use the water them for now,’’ says Adelina, with a broad smile. 17

Omondi defies odds to secureBY FAITH MUIRURI Senate nomination

enator Godliver Omondi rose to political fame during Sthe clamour for the new Constitution. The Senator, who was representing Persons with Disability in the panel reviewing the Constitution, says her political journey started with this important process. She recalls that during the referendum, she aligned herself with the Yes campaign and was actively engaged in sensitizing persons with disability and the general public on the importance of voting for the new Constitution. She was able to mingle with the high and mighty in the political Godliver Omondi arena and this exposure awoke her personality and she begun to aspire for a political seat. registered as a member of the “I redoubled my efforts in “I wanted to be among the Orange Democratic Movement support of the party because I knew first persons to join politics under (ODM) and decided to use her my nomination has been sealed the new Constitution and make little resources in support of party since the Constitution provides laws that are disability friendly,” activities. that this is a closed list and once adds the former vice chair of the The Senator made sure she submitted to the IEBC, it cannot be United Disabled Persons of Kenya attended all their political rallies. “I subjected to any changes. I knew it (UDPK). always made sure that I positioned has been gazetted and nobody can tamper with it.” However, her political journey myself strategically to be visible,” was not smooth sailing. From she adds. the onset, she knew she did not “I could lobby to be allowed Name replaced have enough finances to run for a to address the political rallies However, she got a rude shock political seat. She also knew that and speak on issues relating to after the elections when her name the Constitution had earmarked Persons with Disabilities to endear was replaced shortly before being two nomination slots for persons myself with the party leadership gazetted. with disability in the Senate. right from the grassroots.” She recalls that being in the The legislator had to rely This helped her to keep abreast nomination list was grueling task mainly on skills she acquired from with developments in the political and now having to challenge the a training organized by National arena. She also managed to party’s decision was the biggest Democratic Institute to secure secure a lead position in the ODMs challenge. a nomination in the senate. She nomination list. She did not have any resources 18

to move to court and efforts to school started soon after I became agreed to inject some money in nullify the process through IEBC a Senator are now fully operational support of the initiative.” were futile. with students in Forms one and She says that she will soon be “I went to see Isaak Hassan t w o.” launching a disability human care who was rude to me. He told me The legislator mainly focuses centre in Kakamega County, a there is nothing the commission on programmes aimed at not only concept she has borrowed from can do as he had already signed alleviating poverty but breaking its Japan, which aims at having a the approved list for gazettement vicious cycle. pool of Personal Assistants (PAs) and if I still felt aggrieved, I should trained specifically to handle go to court.” Welfare project different types of disabilities She knew she had exceptionally Her projects at the constituency among them interpreters in sign high chances of winning the case level are doing well. Among them language, those who can handle and this encouraged her to fight is a welfare project which is being wheel chairs, and guide the to the end. “I went to court with implemented under the Godliver visually impaired. support from well wishers and I community support initiative. “I “If there are big meetings thank God the ruling was made have bought a pick up, tents and in neighbouring Busia, Vihiga, in my favour and I was sworn in plastic chairs which are mainly Kakamega, Trans Nzoia and after unsuccessful appeals by my used during funerals. The pickup is Bungoma counties, the centre can opponents.” also used to transport sick people provide sign language interpreters Omondi who represents to the hospital or the body from at a fee. The money raised from persons with disability is known mortuary free of charge. such ventures can be used to for never turning her back to a Her other initiatives include sustain the centre.” needy person who approaches her her recent launch of a boda boda She says this centre will for help. Sacco in Matungu Constituency. also serve as a rescue centre She has often dug deep into “I am planning to issue them for persons with disability and her own pocket to educate needy with insurance covers. I have especially survivors of sexual children. “With my salary, I have asked their leadership to look for violence. started a project on education disciplined boda boda riders to The Senator who sits in the dubbed Mtoto asome initiative. benefit from the initiative.” National Cohesion and Equal According to the legislator, the The Senator has also managed Opportunities, Health, Delegated initiative targets learners with to move to different counties Legislation, Broadcasting and disabilities, orphans and other to do oversight and see how Library services committees needy students, who have dropped budget allocations are done, and has tabled a motion that seeks out of school for lack of fee. if disability is considered. “I have to push for the creation of a “Currently, I am working on told the Migori County assembly county disability board. And structures and very soon, more to make sure when budgeting the introduction of the County needy students will benefit from for women and youth, they must Disability and County Accessibility this kitty,” she explains adding also budget for persons with legislations. that at the moment, around 76 disabilities. “We have a National Disability students are benefiting from this Recently, she launched a Act which talks about issues of initiative. caucus for women with disability in disability and cuts across all the Achievements recorded Migori County and the government 47 counties but the proposed The Senator has also initiated has agreed to allocate unspecified legislations will address specific the construction of two secondary amounts of money to the caucus. issues faced by persons with schools in Matungu Constituency, In addition to all this, she has disability in different counties.” both of them mixed schools; managed to commission and The Senator also intends to one Christian school and the launch a fish pond project for establish a Sacco for the women. other Muslim school to create a PWDs in the same County “I am looking for funds which friendly and conducive learning “Next month, I will be launching will be channeled to the Sacco environment. the Bungoma County disability to enable more women to access “St Mary’s Namasanga and Sacco and the governor has credit from the revolving fund. Namulungu Muslim Secondary 19

BY FAITH MUIRURI

enator Liz Chelule is a seasoned Community work politician. Her political career Sspans over a decade. She has been in the grassroots for more than pays dividends for 20 years during her involvement with the Gender Equity Network, an organization that seeks to empower Chelule women. Chelule has also been contesting for parliamentary seats since 2002. In that year, she contested for the Kuresoi parliamentary seat but lost to the incumbent Zakayo Cheruiyot. This did not discourage her and in 2007, she contested for the same seat again but lost. This experience only served to strengthen her resolve to champion for the rights of the community. She was able to connect more with the people through the Gender Equity Network and initiate several development projects among them the construction of a maternity wing at Keringet Health Centre where she had served as a chairperson. Chelule who is a renowned advocate for women rights, mobilized women into groups and together they were able to buy land from the defunct Nakuru County Council. They then ventured into real estate business. The senator also spearheaded initiatives to rehabilitate five dams, six springs and a tree planting programmee. Through the network, she also started Ngata baby centre for children abandoned by their parents as well as helped to build over 200 churches. Change of tact During the 2013 General Elections she changed tact and vied for the Nakuru County Women Representative seat on a URP ticket but still lost. Her unrelenting spirit and Liz Chelule determination nevertheless earned her a nomination in the senate. 20

According to Chelule, the URP which 26,838 are women groups, “Although the court has leadership was inspired by her 14, 986 youth groups and 977 suspended its implementation, consistency in the political arena people living with disability there is need to come up with and nominated her to the senate. Individuals that benefitedmeasures to stop further At the senate, she has taken to included 491,352 comprising of exploitation of farmers by advancing the women’s agenda 146,708 youth, 323,310 women middlemen and brokers,” says the and is currently pushing for the and 21,334 Persons Living With legislator during an interview at consolidation of funds set aside Disability. her Nairobi office. for the special interest groups At the Senate, Chelule is a At the constituency level, the to enable them tap into the 30 member of the Energy, Roads MP has embarked on a number percent procurement quota. and Transport committee; Land of development projects which She notes that the women, and Natural resource committee; include the construction of Korao youth and persons living with Committee on Delegated Girls Secondary school. The school disabilities are faced with legislation. which is expected to become operational in January 2016, challenges in executing tenders Improving road network, targets 90 girls who are faced with due to lack of collateral required agriculture, education, expansion the risk of early pregnancies and by financial institutions to secure of economic opportunities and the marriages. loans. general well being of the people are top on her agenda. Oversight She takes credit for the Empowered The legislator wants an allocation of funds towards the The legislator also plans to oversight body created to train construction of Molo Olenguruoni develop a cultural centre where and build the capacities of women road. Already the contractor is at people could come and learn and youth at the grassroots the site and construction work is more of their cultures and how to levels in order for them to better set to begin anytime soon. The make traditional delicacies. The understand the processes involved Senator has also been able to initiative targets to bring together and to qualify in the big tenders as mobilize resources to aid in the the elderly from the Mau area who well. construction of the 8kmTendwet- will be empowered economically. She says that they will be engaged “While the policy is a move Irongo road and a bridge. in income generating ventures to in the right direction, access make them self reliant and address remains a major hurdle especially Lower interest rates loneliness which comes with old for women in the rural areas. The Chelule plans to reintroduce an age. The senator will then market process of accessing the funds is amendment to the Agricultural Act their products. tedious and groups are required which seeks to lower interest rates These investments, she hopes, to produce a three month bank on loans advanced to farmers will not be in vain. Her work further statement which is unrealistic for through the Agricultural Finance shows what women need to do to new groups,” she explains adding Corporation. that there is need to create a ensure they are as competitive as “The current rates are national board that will work with their male counterparts when it exorbitant and beyond the reach the people. comes to political positions. of most farmers. My proposal is One of the lessons she has In the last financial year out of to lower the interest rates to 6 learnt is that women need to be the 5,354,400,000 disbursed to percent to enable more farmers supported to make a mark in the the 290 Constituencies, the board access credit,” she explains. has approved 4,240,400,000 for male dominated political field. The legislator is also seeking a funding to groups that met the The other is for women to win statement from the Agricultural eligibility criteria as provided for elective seats, they must invest Committee following delays in in the Public Finance Management in strong campaign teams and be the implementation of the potato (Uwezo fund) Regulations 2014. willing to attend all political rallies law in Kenya which outlaws any The funds have benefitted 42,800 to sell their agenda. packaging of the produce in bags groups across the country out of exceeding 50 kg. 21

Delivering for community, delivers a political post for Musyoka BY FAITH MUIRURI

ne thing that Dr Susan Musyoka never Ocontemplated when she began community work was that this action was launching her future political career. As a private medical practitioner, the legislator worked closely with the community and trained scores of community health workers in a bid to enhance access to quality health care in Machakos County. She came face to face with abject poverty and hopelessness amongst women and youth, most of them yearning for somebody to speak for them. Dr Musyoka stepped in to take up this role which would later propel her into the limelight as she fought for truth, fairness and justice.

Access Justice “I helped many people to access justice, which helped me to hone my leadership skills and prepare myself for service to the Dr Susan Musyoka community,” she explains during an interview with the African good governance and poverty the Sacco so that more women Woman Child Feature Service alleviation. can access credit, engage in table (AWCFS). The MP who is the founder of banking, and improve their income generating ventures at the local Her service to the community the Machakos County Savings level.” would yield hefty returns when she and Credit facility now says that contested and won the Machakos a huge percentage of the newly Revolving fund Woman Representative seat established Affirmative Action The legislator says that she during the 2013 General Elections. Social Development fund will be plans to establish a revolving fund at the county level, which will help In Parliament, Dr Musyoka channelled through the Sacco to women improve their businesses. has set her eyes on women and enable more women access credit. youth issues and is keen on “I will channel some money to She is also keen on promoting gender responsive legislations 22

and has tabled a motion on the the use of evidence and make sure planting and selling tree seedlings prohibition of Female Genital that parliamentary debates are In the other sub counties, she Mutilation in the National based on concrete evidence,” she is going to establish ICT centres Assembly. The motion seeks adds. so that women cannot only access to boost the fight against FGM Dr Musyoka who is a member more information on different by proposing that the school of the Parliamentary Committee income generating activities but curriculum focuses more on the on Health has been instrumental also help demystify issues of adverse effects of FGM so that in shaping the Health Bill which is computer among women in the students are made aware of at the second reading stage. rural areas. measures they can take to stop “As a committee, we have The legislator also plans to the retrogressive act. proposed many changes in the work with other leaders in the area “Although we have a law that way the Health Bill is structured to help identify and nurture talents outlaws FGM, the practise is still and hope the bill will help shape among the youth to enable them going on and women are suffering the way health care is handled in exploit available opportunities. quietly. As leaders, we have a this country,” she affirms. Dr Musyoka says that responsibility to protect innocent Her priorities for her challenges are many and vary girls,” she adds. constituents include providing from the high expectations from The MP has added another clean drinking water and raising the electorate to the vast county feather to her cap and is the education standards. where her presence as a leader current chair of a parliamentary She says that part of the must be felt. caucus that promotes use of money disbursed to the County “I have eight constituencies in evidence by the legislature in its through the Affirmative Action my county and apart from moving decisions. kitty will go towards supporting from one constituency to another, “The caucus which is still new is very needy girls, boys and persons my presence has to be felt through pushing for more use of evidence with disability who have not been the projects I implement. in parliamentary oversight and able to access bursaries awarded One this is making credit decision making roles to help through CDF. accessible to 1,000 women enrich parliamentary debate.” Resources through the Machakos County Approach The legislator says that women Sacco and hope that this will help “We want all parliamentarians in the County will also be trained transform their livelihoods. to embrace this approach so that on financial management toChallenges we can come up with responsive enable them use wisely resources But the biggest challenge is laws. This will also ensure that at their disposal. having a life of your own, she says. parliamentary debates are “I want them to do more than “You belong to the people; they not reactionary but based on table banking. Currently, we are own you and being in the limelight research.” focusing on value addition projects everyone looks up to you.” She says this will be important undertaken by women. We have an “One is lost in a sea of when, for instance, during debate ongoing initiative in Kathiani Sub responsibility and events,” she on the budget, “we are able to County where about 200 women says adding that as much as life interrogate more on how the are engaged in food processing, as a legislator may be hectic, she money was used during the drying vegetables, posho mill and has had to adjust accordingly and previous financial year before baking bread. is enjoying every minute of it. proposing additional allocations.” She says that the group will Dr Musyoka will be defending The MP who is also a member be allocated funds to help them her seat during the 2017 General of the House Business Committee, develop structures that can boost Elections and challenges women says that the caucus is an initiative their respective ventures. to claim their space in all spheres of the African parliamentarians Once the initiative becomes of leadership and not to allow men Network on development fully operational, women can sell to pull them down. evaluation where she serves as the their products and earn a living vice chair. besides the income they get from “The network seeks to promote 23

Winning the hearts of voters for her agenda for women

Mary Mbugua

BY JOYCE CHIMBI The trained marriage counselor catapulted her to fame among the and a teacher by profession, Kikuyu community. f there is one thing that made Mbugua has always believed that “I use my talents to encourage Mary Mbugua popular, then is charity begins at home and that women to be bold, virtuous and Iher teaching on family values building a harmonious home has hard working because when a on stations such as the Inooro far-reaching benefits on the nation woman is progressive, her children FM, Kameme FM, and the Kenya at large. will go to school and her husband Broadcasting Corporation, which She posts a litany of talents is inspired to become all he can earned her the name Mutumia including singing. It is her music be,” she says. Ngatha (Kikuyu for a Woman of and the song dubbed ‘Mutumia Virtue). Ngatha’ (Woman of Virtue) that 24

Master Key County was not easy, particularly Although her agenda is about “I often say that a woman is like because Nakuru County is one of women, she observes that women a master key that can open any the hotbeds of Kenyan politics. are not homogeneous. door.” “You must develop a thick skin “We have the single mothers, She has founded more than and people can really abuse you, widowed, young women, the elderly 1,000 women groups across the some said I am too old for the seat. and so on. The interventions we country to help women do table But I responded that it is called put in place must seek to address, banking, invest in projects, and the Women Representative and in a comprehensive manner, the share lessons and experiences. not Girls Representative. I was the challenges that these diverse This has made her so popular best and still am the best for this women face,” she says. among many people, proving that position because I have a lot of “Young girls must strive to be when women pursue a popular experience,” she emphasizes. educated and pursue a career, cause, their popularity in society but when a mistake has occurred rises. Young girls resulting in an early pregnancy, This passion to inspire and must strive to let us encourage these girls to get nurture drove her to the teaching be educated back on track,” says the former profession “I had the capacity and pursue a career, teacher. to pursue any other career but but when a mistake has She says she is very passionate teaching sat very well with my about education as a pathway personal goals. I wanted to teach occurred resulting in an to success. In this regard, she people.” early pregnancy, let us is involved in many mentorship Though she is the Women encourage these girls to programs. “One of worst forms Representative for Nakuru County get back on track,” of poverty is that of the mind. We on Party must enrich it with information; we Mary Mbugua, Politician (TNA), politics was never her cup must constantly be in the pursuit of tea. She recalls how in the 1990 of knowledge,” advices Mbugua. she has turned a nomination offer Despites investing in life- from former President Moi to changing programs, she has been represent Molo constituency. a victim of propaganda; all aimed The former Tact Tutor -or at derailing her from her focus. She says that the brand she had a teacher in-charge of other She is encouraging fellow female built for years as a campaigner of teachers- comes across as a politicians not to walk down this women issues made her campaign purpose driven woman, firm path and to support each other. easier. but gentle when the situation Some of the lessons she has Mbugua however says that demands. learnt include believing that she resources are always an issue for Her turning point in politics has the capacity to face challenges a politician and even more so for came after the promulgation of a and be consistent in her work. new Constitution in 2010. women. The going gets rougher for those without principles or a cause She is currently working on a Bill “About four delegations came on which to hinge their campaign. that seeks to address the specific to my home in Molo, they told me needs of women in their various “One must always have a clear that there was a new seat created circumstances, particularly agenda of what they intend to called the Women Representative, the widows who are becoming address once in power and direct I loved that name because I am all increasingly vulnerable. about the woman,” she says. their energies in bringing this change,” she advises. Two years to the next general Her husband, now deceased, election, her in-tray of what “Personality politics is a real told her that if Kenyans see her fit needs to be done remains full. issue in this country and I would and give her the job, she should But Mbugua is confident come advise other women to be issue rise to the occasion and do it. 2017; she will receive a positive driven and avoid personality assessment from the voters. Campaigning to be voted in politics.” as a representative of an entire 25 In the frontline of transforming lives of the disabled, women and youth BY SYRIAN MBEZA

hree years ago concerned about lack of a sign language interpreter Tduring television news bulletin, Wanjiku Muhia promised herself that one day, she will do something about it. Then a branch manager at one of the country’s commercial banks, she knew the solution lies in enactment of a law that requires all television news channels to include sign language in their prime news. But to be able to push for this changes, she needed to be a decision making position. That is why in 2013 she resigned from her job and contested for the Women Representative position for Nyandarua County. She won. Her first mission in Parliament was to ensure that a law was passed requiring TV channels to take in account people with hearing disability. “For the news channels, it was as if these people did not exist in our country,” she says Through the Persons with Disabilities (Amendment) Bill 2013, which she moved in the national assembly, broadcast news anchoring got a new face; a sign language interpreter was included. “By ensuring that all the people now enjoy news is by all means an achievement of inclusivity in society. In a big way, that fulfils what the Wanjiku Muhia Constitution requires of the State.” 26

This is no mean contribution ``Women and youth were “By ensuring that the fund by this first-time MP. Although requesting for capital to start is well shared, we are now not all news stations have small enterprises. In most cases, witnessing more young women effected this law, she is sure I used my salary to give them a and youth participate fully in the very soon they will all have small capital to start-off. county and national economy,” sign language interpreters in One of the lessons that I she says. their news bulletins and other have learnt is that a leader is With offices spread in all the programmes. best defined by the sacrifices sub-counties, Wanjiku says the In parliament, she is also he or she makes for her society. county government should place making a difference. As aSacrificing as little as Sh1, 000 advertisements for tenders member of the Administration can make a difference to our on the notice boards to reach and National and Regional rural women and youth who are everyone. Integration committees, she is in most cases held back by small By doing, she says, it ensures contributing to advancement capital.” that women and the youth get and success of national and up to 35 per cent of the local regional governments. There are those tenders. But Wanjiku says it is not who saw us as On personal growth, Wanjiku easy being a County Women just joy riders is enhancing her leadership and Representative. While they are who were only drawing advocacy skills to enable her to expected to do so much and huge salaries without not only realize her ambitions, contribute to development but to also realize the wishes of initiatives, County women MPs a clear job description. her electorate. are not allocated any funds to Our colleagues who As a member of the initiate such programmes. This have a kitty seem Kenya Women Parliamentary has made them an easy target more relevant to the Association (KEWOPA), she has for attacks by competitors who electorate than us. been learning bargaining and say there is nothing they are Wanjiku Muhia, Nyandarua advocacy skills. doing. County Women Rep “It is not easy to deal the “There are those who saw us government as an individual but as just joy riders who were only with such bodies; it becomes drawing huge salaries without easier to call for action.” a clear job description. Our The good news is that now colleagues who have a kitty seem the Women Representatives She says is also acutely aware more relevant to the electorate have their own kitty to initiative that there are many projects she than us. development projects in their needs to complete before 2017 Counties. if the electorate is to take her As we battled with this seriously as leader. negative perception, the Some of the projects Wanjiku promises we had made to the has helped fund and which “There is a lot I need to do electorate begged for attention. are run by women and youth to improve the fortunes of the There was no way I was going to include milk processing and the people. Why are we not fulfilling sit and watch the voters who had preparation and selling of crisps. the mandate they gave us? What faith in me despair.” Some of these products are good have we done with our sold in big supermarkets in the current positions?” she poses. Without a Kitty, she began Nairobi and other outlets. initiating projects heavily “I came into the office with a financed from her salary. To She has also enlightened clear goal of achieving results many, she sent the message that and played a key role in helping for the electorate. For now, I am women leadership makes a huge women form groups and access firmly keeping my eye on the difference. Uwezo Fund. ball,” says Wanjiku. 27

Gini Dagane Dagane believes women leadership is the answer toBY JOYCE societal CHIMBI I retreated problems and withdrew from be a great undertaking. In fact, all political engagements,” she there is only one MP on TNA in hen Gini Dagane says. my area,” she explains. received a paltry But come 2013, she changed “Though I had not expressed W57 votes in 1997 her decision. A Member of any interest to vie since the while vying on the National Parliament approached her and 1997, I had built a strong brand Democratic Party for a councilor encouraged her to vie on The as a campaigner of people’s position for Lagdera ward, she National Alliance (TNA) Party, rights, helping me have a vowed not to run again for a under the . significant influence,” she says. political office. “North Eastern was a CORD Dagane explains that many “To me, this meant that my zone. So asking me to throw my people do not understand or people had rejected me and so weight under TNA was going to are unaware that there are 28

unknown forces on the ground challenges for women seeking attainable levels.” that do a lot of work for the leadership positions. For her, “education must be a preferred candidates to an “I am very passionate about part of the tools that we use to extent they become so powerful women leadership because I access leadership.” that politicians seek them out. know the potential we have as True to the ability of women This is the profile she had women. Development must to multi-task, Dagane has built: An asset that many be viewed through a gender many other responsibilities for politicians look for when lens for it to be achieved and she seats on the Agricultural, identifying a partner to work sustained,” Dagane explains. Labor and Implementation with. She gives the example of the Committees. “Though CORD was very sanitary pads where she has “Women can do anything strong on the ground, we had greatest impact in helping they put their minds to and managed to have four elected improve the wellbeing of girls. the current Constitution has Members of the County “We joined forces and lobbied created many opportunities for Assembly on TNA. For this, male leaders in the Garissa women. It is now up to them the party rewarded me with a Assembly, which resulted in a to rise and be counted,” says nomination.” budget allocation for sanitary Dagane. Dagane says the political pads for our girls in Garissa.” While the law provides for life of a Muslim woman is very women empowerment, one of difficult but in the same breadth Improve issues the main challenges that she encourages other women to Dagane says this is one of and other women faced was join the arena. the illustrations that women the issue of clan. Clanism is a She says that unlike her, involvement can improve issues critical issue in North Eastern women should not take defeat such as safe motherhood and and becomes even more so as the end of the world and girl child education. during elections. must be willing to try as many “My region is also notorious “My husband and I come from times as it takes. for the Female Genital different clans so this became “As women we have more Mutilation, early marriages, an issue because they would power than we think. Most of the forced marriages, early say am taking votes from his elected leaders are put there motherhood and girls not going community to my clan. But my by women, either as voters or to school,” she explains. husband was very supportive campaigners,” she says. “These are the issues of me and that improved the “In my area alone, there are confronting me as a leader and situation,” she says. about 17,000 voters and at least am working with other leaders, Dagane is however quick to 10,000 are women, why do we religious leaders, community add that clanism as a political still wait to be given leadership leaders and even schools to put tool is no longer as serious as it when we have all the votes and a stop to these problems.” used to be because women are can easily hand this power to Though a vast majority of taking the lead in sensitizing ourselves?” the women in power in North the community on the need for Serving as a nominated Eastern have little education clan harmony. Member of the County because of the region’s On future political plans, Assembly has presented notorious history in regard to Dagane intends to vie as many opportunities for her to the discrimination of women a Member of the County showcase female leadership in and girls, she says that “girls Assembly under the Jubilee a community where culture and must stay in school and receive Alliance in the 2017 general religions can sometime present education to the highest elections. 29

BY JOYCE CHIMBI

From humble er rise in politics from a humble beginning where Hshe used to sit under a beginning, MCA tree at Naivasha’s Wholesale and Retail markets to being the only elected female Member of the changing the face of County Assembly has awed many. Friends and foe acknowledge Naivasha the fact that it is not every day that a woman who was previously famous for selling avocado and bananas, becomes the first woman ever to be elected as the Member of the County Assembly (MCA) for the Nakuru County’s second most important Ward, Viwandani ward. It is even more awe-inspiring when at the age of 34-years-old, she won the seat on the little known Mazingira party. How she beat candidates from popular parties such as The National Alliance Party (TNA) and the United Republican Party (URP) parties, is a story that will most likely be told for years to come. This is Hon Eunice Muriithi, who has achieved so much since she was elected. She seats in the Speaker’s panel, meaning she plays the speakers role in the absence of the speaker and often chairs the Committee of the entire Assembly. “I was previously employed in the hospitality industry, a job I left to explore what the Naivasha Wholesale and Retail market had for me. I was not growing in employment and I had a child to take care of,” says Muriithi. A hotelier by profession – Eunice Murithi currently pursuing a Bachelor 30

in Business Management and economy, she has worked with leadership, she is pleased that Leadership at St Paul University- the county authorities to ensure Nakuru is leading from the front. Muriithi embodies the strength 30 street lights are in place. “Not only do we have a of a woman. She mingles “I value education but I also Madam Speaker Hon Susan freely with her constituency, want people to begin thinking Kihika who has really raised something that has made her outside the box, bring your the bar and continues being popular. degrees to every sector of this a shining example of quality Another thing that has economy where money is being female leadership, we have increased her popularity was the exchanged, be it the market the highest number of female ability to transform the market place or the bus terminus, that is elected MCAs,” she says. days in her sub-county, opening how we will grow our economy,” There are 55 MCAs and eight immense opportunities to her she says. of them are women elected fellow residents. According to Muriithi, by a public that has shown “I was the only one selling on education has inspired many an acceptance for female Tuesdays because all the traders of the changes that she has leadership “they have seen that would be in Kirinyaga buying their introduced in Viwandani. “For in deed women can lead, and products and managed to sell instance, because space is bring change.” their goods starting Wednesday a challenge, I am working on While women in this county morning,” she explains. building a four storey market that have been doing well, many like “Once they realized that can accommodate foodstuff,her have had to endure certain they too could sell on Tuesday, clothes and even youths who are challenges. One of them is the they made it a market day. The running cyber cafes.” culture of handouts. change I brought about was due At the moment, one of the The other is party politics and to education, which helps you to leading banks is in talks with violence. “I was very naïve and do something more efficiently her to see how fund their own did not know that one person and think big,” she explains. women empowerment projects. can even vote thrice in party For Muriithi, leadership must This interest has not come nominations, or that votes can run in her blood: her father is out of nowhere. When she joined be hidden, as a result, I lost the an ex-councilor while her great the market place in 2008, she TNA ticket.” grandfather was a Paramount formed the Winners Women “Campaigns are a painful Chief. group where some 20 women and very expensive, you put Her reign as an MCA has have been saving just Ksh100 in Ksh30, 000 for posters recorded successes. She is each per week. today and overnight they are helping with the rehabilitation “Money is not always the vandalized. You need a thick of those who have been problem, sometimes it is skin and a strong spirit not to be incarcerated since the Naivasha information that people need or discouraged,” she explains. prison, which falls in her just coming together and sharing She further encourages area. At the Naivasha district ideas to grow our businesses,” women not to despair at first hospital, she has helped to set- she explains. sight of trouble, saying that up a casualty wing to improve The advancement of women when her campaign coffers run how patients are received and in politics needs to also come up dry, she resorted to riding on two treated. with strategies to increase their donkeys to move from one point A state of the art stadium is representation. to the next. also in the making which she Though many Counties As part of lessons learnt, says will see at least 1,500 people across the country continue to she says that women at times gain employment. Towards lament the poor status of female underrate themselves “when turning Naivasha into a 24 hour representation in positions of they can do it.” 31

Firmness and loyalty wins

GuhalBY JOYCE CHIMBI political recognition

on Salatho Ali Guhal has been a member of Hthe Ford Kenya party for more than two decades, a consistency that is rather unique in Kenyan politics where a vast majority of politicians want to change parties as often as the situation dictates. Having entered politics during KANU times when expressing personal democratic views could land a person in jail, Guhal says she had a challenging political journey. At one point she was arrested for expressing her views on how democracy should be seen to function. Her rocky beginning in politics has defined her political career since. First, her community was against female leadership for many years to an extent that when she vied for a Councilor position in 2007 for Garissa-now Garissa Township, her own son was her greatest obstacle. “I campaigned against my own mother. In my community we bring in the issue of religion when we do not want our women to vie, but religion does not prohibit women leadership,” explains her son- Sharifow Guhal who has since Salatho Ali Guhal 32

changed his mind and is 2007 general elections and became one of the first crop one of his mother’s greatest the available nomination of leaders under the 2010 supporters. ticket was given to a man “who Constitution and has since put Her son’s rejection was just was never even a member of her energies into addressing one of the many obstacles Ford Kenya.” But she decided security concerns in Garissa that Guhal was facing. The to stay and see what the as her key agenda item. other was vying against a man future would bring. Guhal decries the lack of who had been the incumbent sufficient Police Posts in the for 24 years. “I faced a lot of People wanted County citing only two in an harassment. Many wondered to bribe me area that is famous for being how I could even dare oppose because ODM expansive. This makes it a man,” she remembers. was very popular. I easier for criminals roam with But even with this great was just a poor woman impunity. opposition, Guhal had become selling vegetables and “I am specifically lobbying a point woman for Ford Kenya Khat (Miraa) but I stood to have at least two more in Garissa, campaigning my ground,” police posts,” she explains. vigorously for the party Salatho Ali Guhal, nominated Guhal, who also serves candidates whereby she had MCA in Garissa. on the House Business made a name for herself. Committee, says her other It was therefore not agenda is education and surprising when she was quality standards that have to approached in 2007 to join be adhered to. In spite of the setback, the Orange Democratic She says her focus is women she managed to leave a Movement (ODM) where her and children, whose rights strong mark. When Senator son Sharifow was a youth she is known for promoting Moses Wetangula became leader. in the county. “I ensure that I party leader and asked for “People wanted to bribe contribute on issues critical to a committed party member me because ODM was very our mothers and children. It is from Garissa, her name was popular. I was just a poor very important to address the the first on the list. woman selling vegetables and challenges that they face such Khat (Miraa) but I stood my The party proposed to her as access to health services, ground,” she says. that if she failed to win in 2013 economic opportunities and elections, the party would According to Guhal, the aim education.” nominate her as a Member was to be a strong member Though she says that of the County Assembly in of Ford Kenya where she women rights are still a Garissa. could even join the executive concern in Garissa, it is committee. “This is what She chose to do what many becoming a non-issue as women should aspire for. women are afraid of “trusting more and more women Becoming powerful within my party”. Many women are access power. Come 2017, the party where they can afraid for a reason. They have she says she going to vie for influence decision. At times been shortchanged time and an MCA position before going you need not be elected to be time again. But Guhal believed for bigger positions in future powerful within your party of the Ford Kenya leadership was elections. choice.” live up to its promise. She did not make it in the She was right. In 2013 she 33

One woman’s political resilience pays off

Muhubo Omar Ahmed

BY JOYCE CHIMBI She embodies the struggles and in politics as we do now.” successes that women in politics But her dream was much he has survived bruising endure to emerge at the top. Like bigger than her fears and upon political nepotism and a many other women in her region, joining NARC-Kenya and publicly Slong drawn court battle to she has had, since 2002, to deal declaring her intentions to vie emerge among the nominated with a difficult political terrain. for a Councilor position under Members of County Assembly “My challenge was bigger the old Constitution, her woes (MCA) in Garissa. than I can explain to you. Being begun. This is Muhubo Omar Ahmed, a woman in North Eastern, you They first said that it was who seats on the powerful are expected to be seen and not against religion for a woman Implementation Committee at heard, it was even worse because to vie for a political seat, with the Garissa County Assembly. we did not have as many women vying against other men being 34

considered a great abomination. She has remained a member of Though neither she nor Karua This was in 2002. NARC-Kenya for more than 10 made it, she got a nomination “My father had been a years, never once wavering. from the party only for a well Councilor in Ijara, Garissa for “You must commit to the known political family with strong more than two decades. So many party and strive to change it political connections to replace people saw my campaign as a from within. I tell people not to her name with that of their sister. challenge to my father although change parties as often as they This begun a court battle that I was not running against him,” change their clothes, because of would last for an entire year. Ahmed observes. my loyalty to NARC-Kenya, I am A daunting task as she had to At one point both her name where I am today,” she explains. make several trips from Garissa, and that of her father were over 350 kilometres, to Nairobi gazetted, and the people said for hearings. “‘look at her putting herself as an Every politician “I saw a great sister in Karua, equal with her father’. They tried depends on I have even slept in her house for to bring in culture and religion to family support three months as the case was say that I had done something first before you can go going on,” says Ahmed. disrespectful. My father and out there and build a Her name being replaced husband stood by me,” she was not just a slap in the face of expounds. loyal following. But if democracy but a blatant show Having grown up in a political that does not happen, of impunity since the family in family, she is the only woman then problems start,” question is influential in one of interested in politics, an issue Muhubo Omar Ahmed, key political parties. “But since that did not go down well with nominated MCA in Garissa. I am an ordinary poor woman, other family members. The they thought that they can just backlash was discouraging. take the nomination away from “Every politician depends on me and get away with it,” she family support first before you says. She says that she has long can go out there and build a loyal Her court battles now behind shunned tribal politics as can be following. But if that does not her; she sits firmly in NARC- reflected in her fervent support happen, then problems start,” Kenya’s executive committee for Martha Karua. she says. and encourages other women “I told her I will take her to Before going into politics, not to be content with just State House, we are of different Ahmed was a well known being party members. “Being in tribal and religious backgrounds agriculturalist, a career she leadership is key because the but that to me does not matter. had built for ten years. When party consults you ad when there What matters is whether I believe her passion for politics could are opportunities you are always in what she stands for,” Ahmed no longer be contained, she considered.” says. resigned as a Junior Agricultural Ahmed is passionate about Assistant with the government. According to Ahmed, girl child education, women supporting Karua was not a She first tried her luck in leadership and political party simple strategic move to launch 2002. She did not make. Again in democracy, things that continue her troubled political career. 2007 and 2013, she failed to get to define her in Garissa and enough votes to win. But these “This support came at which she hopes will be an asset failures were not in vain, they great risk to myself because I come 2017 general elections. came with valuable lessons. remember when Karua came to She plans to vie on NARC-Kenya Garissa on a campaign mission for an MCA position. First, Ahmed is among the and a bomb killed four people very few women, if not politicians at the venue where she was in general who have shown rare scheduled to speak, it was not a and admirable party loyalty. good thing,” she remembers. 35

BY ODHIAMBO ORLALE Garissa Nominated ominated Member of the Garissa County Assembly, NQueen Teresia Titus, has MCA says sky is the always aimed high since she was in school. Those dreams have made her go limit as she eyes 2017 places literally and to achieve some goals that were initially beyond her wildest imaginations. One of the dreams was to venture into politics one day and make a name in what has been described as a ‘dirty game.” In 2013, she joined Wiper Democratic Party and campaigned vigorously for the gubernatorial candidate, Nathif Jana, who later won. Her party recognized her contribution and rewarded her with a seat of a Nominated MCA, which she says: “is good but not good enough.” After her swearing-in, Titus, who is a leading trader in Garissa town, was selected to be a member of three committees in the County Assembly made up of 48 MCAs. All elected MCAs and 18 of the Nominated MCAs, like herself, are women. She was born and raised in Garissa and speaks Somali language fluently. She has defied the odds by being the only none Somali MCA in the County Assembly and also the only Christian. That profile has helped her be recognized whenever she catches the Speaker’s eye and raises pertinent issues of importance that her female colleagues are shy about highlighting because of the cultural inhibitions about speaking in public and in front of men. Says Titus: “I plan to plunge into elective politics in 2017 and vie for Queen Teresia Titus one of the MCA’s seat in Garissa 36

Town. I feel that I have done Eastern Kenya where she doubled nod from the WDP leader. Some of enough ground work.” up as the chairperson of the her rivals rushed to court and filed Indeed, the nominated MCA Small-Scale and Micro-Enterprise a petition contesting her name on has turned her being a minority in Traders Federation, which covered grounds that she was not a native the dusty town to her advantage the three counties of Garissa, Wajir of the area and was favoured. The by standing firm for her rights as a and Moyale. petition was heard at the Garissa trader, a woman and a member of court for three months and the the Wiper Democratic Party. I feel I have judge ruled in her favour. Says Titus: “The delay in hearing “I feel I have done enough done enough ground work and I am now ready and concluding the petition cost to officially venture into politics ground work me a place in the trade committee, and vie for a ward in Garissa and I am now ready to which was my favourite, because town with a focus on the traders officially venture into by the time I was sworn-in, my and how they can be helped” the politics and vie for a colleagues had filled most of those Nominated MCA said. slots in committees as chairmen ward in Garissa town and members.” She is an active member of the recently formed Garissa Women with a focus on the However, she was selected County Assembly Caucus which traders and how they to be a member of three is focusing on addressing women can be helped” other committees, these are: empowerment; gender issues House Business Committee; Queen Teresia Titus, nominated Early Childhood Development such as Gender Based Violence MCA in Garissa. and Female Genital Mutilation, Education; and of the Labour which are common, but are rarely committee. reported to the relevant authorities Since then, the Nominated due to fear, stigmatisation and MCA says she has promoted The MCA says she had some ignorance of the procedures and debate on issues around Early politics running in her blood institutions to run to for help. Childhood Education (ECD) in the by then thanks to two uncles, County Assembly and influenced Indeed, cases of GBV and FGM from the paternal and from the the recruitment of many ECD are rarely reported in the area due maternal sides, who had served as teachers. to the conservative and patriarchal civic leader and another is Mwingi society and culture of the Somalis. South MP, Bernard Munyoki In the House Business The MCA says these are some Kitumbe, in her native Mwingi Committee, she has always of the agenda items that she plans District, which is in Kitui County. partnered with her fellow nominated women MCAs to to campaign around in the run She then put all her weight and ensure that all motions and Bills up to the 2017 elections among networks into play and worked to be debated and voted on have others touching on women and overtime to ensure that Duale was a gender agenda and are children children. elected as the Dujis MP on an ODM and family-friendly. She ventured into politics in party ticket. On the insecurity concerns in 2007, when she threw her weight In the run up to the 2013 North eastern region and Garissa behind one of the parliamentary polls, her business contacts, town in particular, she says she has candidates for the then Dujis mobilization skills and gender used her good office as an MCA parliamentary seat, then occupied helped her open doors for herself to lobby for more police posts, by a powerful Cabinet minister, and her candidate. Maalim Mohamed, who had especially in densely populated Says Titus: “The campaigns occupied it for over two decades. residential areas like Garissa were so successful that I was Ndogo and Tumaini, to be set up Her gamble paid off. She was inspired to consider running for a by the County and the national allowed to hold a key position in civic seat come 2017.” She is one government. the campaign team of Aden Duale, of the 18 nominated MCAs, 16 of Her political future looks bright, where her voice and advice was who are women, out of a total of and come 2017, she is convinced taken seriously. 48. that she will be contesting one of By then Titus was a leading But her nomination did not the positions. trader in the dusty town in North come easy even after she had got a 37

Habiba Abdi Youth need to be politically savvy to get into decision making positions, says Abdi BY JOYCE CHIMBI According to the youthful Committees, says that a quick politician from Garissa, “there glance at political parties and lot has been said are many progressive laws it is clear that there is a lot to about the need to supporting women leadership be desired in as far as gender Aencourage women to but the women themselves parity is concerned. join competitive politics but must be proactive and show “Days when women danced Hon Habiba Abdi says that initiative.” for politicians are long gone, it will all come to naught if The nominated Member we should also aspire to have the women themselves are of the County Assembly of people dance and sing our not ready to join the political Garissa, who also serves in praises in political parties,” she arena. the Budget and Agriculture explains. 38

Though in support of nominations so am sharing “I have not vied yet but I political nominations, she what I have learnt. We are managed to work hard for a herself is a nominee of the always taught how to win in nomination to build my brand United Republican Party of elections,” she says. and use it as a launching pad Kenya (URP), she encourages “But when we vie and when I vie in 2017 as an MCA. women to be very strategic lose, we are left stranded This is my strategy and women about it. and feeling lost. There is an should have such strategies,” “The manner in which you alternative, nomination. Men she observes. are nominated determines a have long benefitted from “Women get easily lot of things. You earn respect nominations and so should discouraged when they as a leader based on how you we,” she adds. think of the resources they are nominated,” Abdi explains. need. But they need to find A woman has to prove that she Nominations for sale other cheaper ways to brand deserved to be nominated. But she warns that there themselves. Many people According to Abdi, she are nominations for sale which know me now,” she adds. learnt several years ago that can be bought by individuals One of her major successes it pays to have a political who have never been in the is helping women to come agenda, something that party for long, bypassing more together and grow various defines you as a leader. Her loyal and serious candidates. grassroots economic political positioning is built on She also warns that some empowerment groups. the youth agenda. leaders, if not watched, can “When mothers have A youth herself, she explains turn one into their ‘house girl’ something to make money that the young generation is just because they gave you a out of, their daughters will not keen on youthful leadership nomination. undergo the Female Genital because they believe that it “This is not leadership. Mutilation, they will therefore has what it takes to improve Nominations are there for a not drop out of school to their wellbeing. reason and women should marry and bear children,” she As a result, over the refuse to be abused in the explains. years, whenever politicians name of nominations.” were meeting and political She encourages women Value of Education manifestos are drawn, her to identify themselves with a Abdi appreciates the value voice was heard demanding group, be it youth or women of education, saying she is for a share for young people. groups and build a loyal grateful to her family for the She says young people following for themselves. opportunity to pursue her should invest their time and “When you bring something dreams, which she says is rare energies in political party substantial to the table you in her culture. affairs for them to be noticed will be taken seriously,” she As she sets her sight on and consulted when the party says. This is what she has sustaining her influence in is about to make one move or done. politics, she is happy that the other. Abdi says that though there more young Muslim women “Take time to establish are more women in North are now fighting it out for a your brand, be known for Eastern serving in active share of the national cake. something. No one taught politics, there are no enough This is just the beginning for us about strategizing for young women in this space. greater things to come. 39 40

Transforming Leadership, Changing lives The value women bring to leadership and governance