The Dawn Issue No. 3

SUPPORTING WOMEN FOR LEADERSHIP
Issue No. 3 march-may. 2012 a quarterly newsletter of the GGP Programme
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women have not been left behind in the campaign trail
Womens rights defender With a passion for change
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the kenya Womens national charter
acts as a demand tool for women especially to those seeking political position
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Sara Longwe is a woman who exudes a lot of charisma and humility that is mindblowing
Zambian Woman
contents
Note from the Editor

Dear reader,
Young, ambitious, determined aspirant aiming for the stars
Flying high the flag of leadership in maginalised communities
Zambian womans fight against patriarchy in politics
ecent opinion polls have shown that Kenyans have confidence in women leaders. A poll commissioned by the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) released by Infotrak pollsters on March 8 this year during celebrations to mark the International Womens Day, showed that at least 47 per cent of Kenyans are willing to vote for a woman president. Sixty-three per cent would vote for women seeking the positions of county governors, 77 per cent for parliamentary (National Assembly) positions, 58 per cent for senator seats and an overwhelming 99 per cent for women seeking the position of county women representatives. However, there have been varied opinions on womens choice of posts with critics saying women are going for soft posts, while other political analysts argue that this may be because most women are new in politics and they prefer to walk before they can run. Perhaps this explains why most of them are aspiring for county women representatives before going for others like the senator of governor posts. Whatever the case, womens involvement in politics is bound to change the political landscape of our beloved country. It is for this and many other reasons that we have dedicated The Dawn issue no. 3 to profiling women aspirants to enable you the reader familiarize yourself with them as they prepare to contest in the 2013 general election. In this issue, we have put together profiles of women aspirants from different parts of the country. Profiles are an excellent way to distill information about people, their successes, challenges and aspirations. The stories in this issue focus on visions the women aspirants have to make the leadership of Kenya better for their children, their grandchildren and generations to come. All this however, would not have been possible without the generous support of UN Women and GGP Usawa ni Haki platform. I take this earliest opportunity to wish the women candidates the best in their campaigns. Enjoy the read. The Editor, Mercy Njoroge.
CMD-Kenya and Heinrich Bll affirmative forums
Womens rich diversity to spice up the political landscape
Breaking the glass ceiling of gender discrimination
10-11
12
Editorial
We change our attitudes, we change our lives
17
Defying the odds in a male dominated political landscape
22
The world has enough for everyones needs, not greed
26
ON THE COVER Joyce Wanjalah Lay. She is contesting for the Taita Taveta county women representative seat.
Breaking the chains of injustices to liberate women
30
Waving goodbye to womens stunted contribution in politics
32-33
Borrowing leadership tips from women in corporate world
35
AMWIK EDITORIAL TEAM

Do not hesitate to write to us or call us on the following address, if you have any queries and concerns on any of the articles appearing in this publication, or on any matters on gender and governance. Wendy Court, House No. 6. David Osieli Rd., off Waiyaki Way, Westlands P. O. Box 10327-00100 Nairobi Kenya. Tel: 254-20-4441226 Tel/Fax: 254-20-4441227 Mobile: 0722-0737 201958 Email: info@amwik.org Website: www.amwik.org
WRITERS Susan Mwangi Collins Oyombe Lucy Kilalo Audrey Wabwire Yvonne Mwende Joyce Nyaruai Umi Wabomba Anne Mbotela Lilian Museka Florence Gichoya
DISCLAIMER The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of AMWIK, UNWomen or partners
Executive Director Ms. Jane Thuo Programmes Manager Marceline Nyambala Programmes Officer Lilian Juma Editor Mercy Njoroge Layout Design Shimron Sakwa
The Dawn
The Dawn
march-may, 2012

By Lucy Kilalo implicity is the ultimate sophistication. For Joyce Wanjalah Lay, her modest childhood and abundance of family love shaped her into the self-respecting, confident and go-getter woman she is today. Two years ago, Joyce would not have thought, even in her wildest dreams, that one day she would aspire to get into politics but now she has her eyes firmly fixed on the Taita Taveta county women representative seat. Born in Mariwenyi village in Mwatate in Taita Taveta, Joyce has kept her childhood zeal not only to succeed in life but to also spread her wings and improve the lives of those in her community. I vividly remember my childhood. I remember going to school barefoot. My father was an administration police officer while my mother was a housewife. Life was hard but we never gave up, says Joyce who is the sixth born in a family of nine. One thing mum taught us was that it does not matter what you go through today, there is always a better tomorrow. Not wearing shoes did not deter Joyces ambition to get an education. She went through primary school and was enrolled at Mwandango Secondary School in Kishamba, Taita Taveta. She later moved to Munda High School but just before she completed her edu-
Many women do not believe in themselves because of the social stereotypes coined out to pin them down
cation, her father passed on. Her family had no alternative source of income and she was forced to drop out of school. After the death of my father, I felt helpless. But while staying with one of my sisters in Mombasa, I healed and decided to focus on the brighter side of life, says Joyce. Her go-getter attitude pushed her to work and make money to register for her final exams. Joyce did menial jobs and she once worked as a house-help. She registered and sat for her form four exams as a private candidate. It is while working as a house-help that I found strength from God and I started believing in myself. After some years, I landed a job as a secretary but shortly after, I decided to venture into business, she says. Armed with her education and little experience, Joyce moved to Nairobi. When she got to the city, a relative hosted her for some months before she moved to a hostel. She was employed as a sales-girl and with the money she made, Joyce enrolled in computer and driving lessons. Joyce did not choose jobs and she thanks her free spirit and humble attitude that opened opportunities for her. She got a job with a promotions and events company, which was her turning point in life. After years of hard work, she ventured into self-employment. She opened restaurants in Nairobi and Voi, operated Safaricom dealership shops, among other businesses. Married to Bill Lay, the chief executive officer of CMC Motors, Joyce says she has learnt to appreciate the far that God has brought her. She is also a mother of a one-and-a-half year old son. Joyce acknowledges that womens issues reproductive health, domestic violence, maginalisation, unemployTURN TO PAGE 14
Ambition & determination
Photo courtesy of Photo House
March-May, 2012
Walking in the footsteps of my father

By Susan Mwangi aimuna Mwidau is a crusader of women leadership; a firm believer of the benefits women in Kenya and around the globe can reap through the implementation of affirmative action and the ripple effect this has on the national to the grassroots level. This strong-willed leader from the Coast is the chairperson and cofounder of the League of Muslim Women of Kenya. As such, she has been involved in the constitution making process for over 10 years in various capacities and has also worked with the Constitution of Kenya Review Commission. Being a member of the Kenya Women Steering Committee, Maimuna advocates for women quota requirement in the National Assembly. Her campaign is anchored on Article 81(b) of the Constitution, which provides that no more than twothirds of the members of the elective public bodies shall be of the same gender. Let us get the women in. Even if it means reducing the salaries of the MPs just to accommodate a larger Parliament, so be it. Imagine if we had fifteen Njoki Ndungus and these women table Bills that mattered to us. This would create a big difference in the lives of women in this country, says Maimuna. Not one to shy away from controversy, Maimuna goes on to state that pay increments should be given to the Kenya Police and the Armed Forces, who put their lives on the line to fight crime and ensure security within and without the borders, teachers who shape
the minds of future generations and doctors who ensure a healthy nation. Early yEars A third-born in a family of six, Maimuna was raised in a strongly opinionated political family. Her late father, honorable Abdallah Mwidau, served as the mayor of Mombasa in the 1970s, and was later voted MP of Mombasa South, today known as Likoni constituency. My father helped build schools and hospitals in Likoni. He even paid school fees for many children who came from poor families and could not afford an education. He divided the little money he had to make a difference in not only our lives, but that of others, Maimuna recalls with a sense of pride. Maimunas first brush with poli-
votes, their fighting spirit was undeterred, and in the 1988 general election, Abdulkadir clinched the seat under the one party system. In 1988, we went full-force on the ground and this was my introduction to grassroots politics 101, says Maimuna with a smile. In 1989, she enrolled in Political Science at the University of Toronto in Canada where she also did a diploma in Marketing Management from the Humber College of Applied Sciences and Technology. After her studies, she returned to Kenya and landed a job in the tourism industry. She later worked with the Kenya Red Cross Society. However, her heart was still in politics. PlungE into Politics While Maimuna was away for her studies, the political landscape in the country changed significantly. Kenya had undergone a transition from a one party state to multiparty democracy. She joined Safina Party and although she was not nominated as the women representative in Parliament, she realised women needed to do more to engage in political leadership in the country. That is when she co-founded the League of Muslim Women of Kenya two years ago. In collaboration with UN Women, Maimunas organisation has empowered women through a significant number of projects. Maimuna plunged into elective politics after the death of Kisauni MP Karisa Maitha in August 2004. She lost the elections. She was the only female contestant in the race at the time. gEndEr, FinancE and Politics During the campaigns in 2004, Maimuna recalls, her marital status was used to de-campaign her. Being an unmarried Muslim woman, Maimuna faced the brunt of the stereotypes society has weaved out to demean women. During her campaign trail, she would be reminded that she is a Muslim woman and therefore cannot be allowed to vie for a political seat. Despite all the negativity, Maimuna did not let down her guard. She focused on discussing with
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The Dawn
footsteps of my father
Let us get the women in. Even if it means reducing the salaries of the MPs just to accommodate a larger Parliament, so be it. Maimuna
tics therefore, came at an early age. Her father, she says, would ask her for opinions on various political matters. Her interaction with her fathers allies also gave her exposure in politics and she knew from an early age that she was freshlyground for politics. I was very close to my father and very keen to engage in politics. I also read newspapers a lot to understand the siasa in the country, says Maimuna, who according to many, is her fathers identical. The father-daughter relationship was made stronger by their passion for politics. When her father died in 1986, Likoni constituency was thrown into a by-election in December of that year. Maimunas family went on a door-to-door campaign for her elder brother Abdulkadir Mwidau. Although he lost by 55
Flying high the flag of leadership in Kenyas maginalised communities

In January, over 1,500 women leaders and aspirants met at the Bomas of Kenya in Nairobi for the launch of the Kenya Womens National Charter. Our writer Audrey Wabwire had a one-on-one interview with some of the aspirants. Here is what they had to say
Q: Coming from a pastoralist community, what challenges do you face as a leader? A: Our mode of lifestyle makes it almost impossible to get access to information. In most cases, we miss out on important issues concerning the leadership of this country. This doesnt however mean that we cannot participate in leadership. Also, girls and women are the most disadvantaged because of lack of education. The lack of education automatically disqualifies women from seeking elective posts on grounds of merit. To use myself as an example, I dropped out of school in standard seven. So, that automatically disqualifies me from vying in the next elections. I will however support the election of women vying for political seats. Q: Do women in leadership face different challenges compared to their male counterparts? A: Yes! Society views women as caretakers, homemakers and mothers, roles they are expected to carry out perfectly. But when it comes to politics, our patriarchal society does not expect women to vie for political seats. Although things have changed now, there are disparities on challenges that women and men face while seeking positions of leadership. Society treats women in leadership harshly. Look at Nancy Barazas story.Whatever transpired, society seems to forget that women are human beings with emotions. Q: It is unlikely that you will run for an elective seat in the forthcoming elections. What impact will you have in the polls? A: One of my sons looks up to me as his political mentor. He is aspiring for a parliamentary seat. I plan to be in his campaign team and help him succeed. *****************************
ucy Lote has been a councillor in West Pokot in Kapenguria for 20 years. She is a mother of nine and is also a grandmother.
Lucy Lote
Lucy Sadera, 47, is the chairperson of Maendeleo Ya Wanawake in Narok. (vying for ward representative)
Q:What are you taking home with you from this meeting? A: The launch of the Charter is an eye opener for women seeking political seats in the forthcoming general election. Getting an opportunity to mingle with other women aspirants has boosted my confidence to face my competition and in a way, it has prepared me for the uncertainties. From the presentations made today by women MPs, it is evident that the world of politics is not for the faint hearted. It was therefore a great learning opportunity. Q: What challenges do you face in Narok as a female leader? A: As you may already know, I come from a conservative community, one where for decades, women are to be seen and not heard. For women aspirants, it is an uphill task but with the promulgation of the Constitution in 2010, women were given a voice and initiatives like the Kenya Womens National Charter will go a long way in promoting womens leadership.
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The Dawn
Lucy Sadera
March-May, 2012
Womens rights defender with a passion for change

By Collins Oyombe s the political temperature in the country continues to rise, and the general election beckons, women have not been left behind in the campaign trail. Lilian Wakiiya Mwaura popularly known as mama wakili is one such woman. She has positioned herself for the Kiambu county women representative seat. Born in Kiambu constituency, Lilian is one of founders of the Federation of Women Lawyers Kenya (FIDA-Kenya) and a former chairperson of National Council of Women in Kenya. The straighttalking Lilian attended Loreto Limuru High School for her O level and Loreto Convent Msongari for her A level. In 1974, she graduated from the University of Nairobi with a Bachelor of Law degree. She proceeded to Kenya School of Law the following year for a diploma course.
Womens rights defender
After graduating, Lilian joined her brother at K. Mwaura & Co Advocates. During her internship, she discovered that women, whose access to justice was almost impossible, were oppressed and undermined in society. I handled many cases on land, property inheritance, divorce, child support, sexual and domestic violence on pro bono basis because many women were poor and could not afford legal fees, says Lilian. After some years, she joined efforts with some female lawyers and founded FIDA in 1985. I served as the first chairperson of Fida between 1985 and 1990. We were able to achieve a lot as an organisation. All this is documented in a book I authored titled The Birth of a Dream, which gives the historical background of Fida, says the veteran lawyer assertively. As an astute womens rights defender, her passion to serve the marginalised was recognised and in 1987, Lilian was elected chair-
person of the National Council of Women in Kenya. During her 12-year tenure as chairperson of NCWK, she realised that there was a wide gap between the urban-educated and rural-uneducated women. The rural women were least aware of their rights and the legal process owing to their limited education. I initiated mentorship training programmes for women in the grassroots. We focused on leadership, advocacy, microfinance and mobilisation aimed at empowering them. It was a big success! Lilian says enthusiastically. During her stint at NCWK, Lilian got funding from Carnegie Foundation in New York, USA to carry out review of her organisations activities since inception. The result of this process was amendment of the NCWK constitution, which contained the vision, the mission and inclusion of women groups as members as part of the five year action plan. My dedication and thorough articulation of womens issues saw me appointed the NGO national coordinator for preparations leading to the 4th United Nations World Conference on Women held in Beijing, China in 1985. I visited many parts of Africa and I have witnessed massive marginalisation of women across the continent, she says. After her return from China, Lilian co-authored The Road To Beijing with Prof Wanjiku Kabira. Lilian takes pride in her unwavering gender equality clarion call and it is for this reason she has worked with among others like Rtd Lady
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I handled many cases on land, property inheritance, divorce, child support, sexual and domestic violence on pro bono basis because many women were poor and could not afford legal fees
Lilian
Lilian Mwaura with her adorable grandchildren.
The Dawn
March-May, 2012
Zambian womans indomitable fight against patriarchy supremacy in politics

By Florence Gichoya ara Longwe is a woman who exudes a lot of charisma and humility that is mind-blowing. She is an African Laureate and the 2003 winner of Africa Prize for Leadership. When I approached her for an interview, she was very receptive and glad to share her journey of activism to inspire women from all generations. Sara says her activism career started at an early age. As the last born in her family, and the only daughter, Sara recalls that her elder brother did not do household chores and when she asked why, she was told girls are expected to do all the chores. She is quick to point out that her brother was not lazy but only conforming to the expectations of the society. After much invervention, her brother begrudgingly joined her in doing house chores. It is then that Sara learnt that if you are not comfortable with a situation, you need to bring the change that you desire. In the mid 70s, Sara got a teaching job at Kabuloga High School in Lusaka. Those days, female teachers in Zambia were not allowed to wear trousers, a restriction she thought was draconian. Sara took it upon
herself to challenge the restriction saying there was nothing wrong in women wearing trousers as long as they were modest. Her sentiments reached the PS in the Ministry of Education. Saras suggestions were tabled in the ministry and today, female teachers in Zambia can go to work in trousers. In 1977, She quit her teaching job to start gender activism. She discovered that Zambia did not have data on gender related issues and she founded Zambia Association for Research and Development in 1984. The organisation put pressure on the government to endorse the Convetion on the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW)
which Zambia signed in 1980. Activists use CEDAW as a gender policy guideline which advocates for development and equality. In 1984, Sara took her gender activism call a notch higher. In the 80s most hotels in Zambia had the pre-colonial unconstitutional rule of right of admission. This is where unaccompanied women were not allowed to get into a hotel. One evening, Sara had gone to pick her children from a party that was held at the Hotel Intercontinental in Lusaka. She was denied entry on grounds that she was unaccompanied. In 1992 Sara made the headlines again when a similar incident happened. She went to the hotel to join her husband and friend for an evening meeting. She was denied entry. Since the constitution had been amended that sex and marital status are not grounds for discrimination, she sued the Hotel Intercontinental and won the case. It was a landmark victory that law students from Commonwealth countries today study her case. In 1990, Sara published the worlds renowned Longwe Frameworks for Gender Analysis, which has been adopted by the Oxford Manual and Unicef Gender Training Manual.
fighting patriarchy in politics
Walking in the footsteps of my father

footsteps of my father
FRom PAGe 4
the electorate methods that can be implemented to eradicate poverty and fight corruption among others. Maimuna however remembers that one of her greatest challenge, as a woman, was funding her campaigns. Politics can be emotionally, physically and financially draining. A lot of money goes into logistics and in 2004, I remember I spent a lot of money for the campaigns, she recalls. The cash factor not withstanding, Maimuna contested the Kisauni parliamentary seat in 2007 on a Kaddu ticket. Unfortunately, she lost. Maimuna gracefully conceded defeat because she believes peace is priceless. She ventured into
civic education on the new constitution. She also did consultancy work for various organisations in South Sudan on the constitution making process, women participation, advocacy and networking. During that time, she served as an international elections observer in Bangladesh. Role models Although the political terrain at the Coast is male dominated, Maimuna draws her strength from among other things, her role models. She admires Indias third Prime Minister Indira Gandhi (1966-1977 and 1980-1984); Israels fourth Prime Minister Golda Meir (1969 1974), who was referred to as the iron-lady of Israeli politics, and
locally, Dr Naomi Shaban currently the Minister for Gender, Mwarere wa Mwachai (MP for Msambweni 1997) and nominated Ford Kenya MP Mariam Matano (1997). Maimuna says that mapping her political roadmap has not been an easy ride. She believes her threedecade journey in politics will soon bear fruit. She has positioned herself in the political landscape to capture the Likoni deputy governor seat. Maimunas conviction is that she will leave a legacy of being the first female Likoni deputy governor who transformed the lives of the electorate through sustainable development projects. Her parting shot to women aspiring for any leadership, be it in politics or the corporate world, Prepare, prepare, prepare!
The Dawn
March-May, 2012
CMD-Kenya and Heinrich Bll hold affirmative forums T

By Susan Mwangi
The fastest way to change society is to mobilize the women of the world
Charles Malik, former President of the UN General Assembly.
affirmative action forums for women aspirants
he Centre for Multi-party Democracy Kenya (CMDKenya) and the Heinrich Bll Stiftung (HBS), have been holding Gender Forums around the country to facilitate public debate on how to actualise the two-thirds gender representation principle, as stipulated in Article 27 of the Constitution. The Affirmative Bill tackles the shackles of an artificial status order that told women where their political place was and kept them underrepresented in both th e elected and appointive positions. Implementing this Constitutional provision will ensure that women and minorities in Kenya begin to realise that no position is beyond their reach. They can aspire to greater achievements because of the broadening of participation in politics and decision making. CMD-Kenya is a body founded by political parties, whose objective is to develop the capacity of its members. Registered in 2004, it presently has 27 member political parties. The organisation also seeks to enhance gender equity and effective participation and representation at all levels in the management of political parties. To this end, CMD-Kenya has been criss-crossing the counties, crusading for greater inclusion of women in politics, through translating womens numerical strengths into political power. Increasing womens participation in politics will facilitate the collapse of barriers that stand in the way of womens political empowerment and ambition. During the forums, it was highlighted that the horizons of what women can aspire to individually and collectively have been expanded. The best indicator of the expanding horizons is the increased number of women who have joined the political fray. Happy Gloria Akhayalu is among the women who have benefitted from the CMD-Kenya and the Heinrich Bll Stiftung sensitisation
Hellen Njue with Happy Gloria (front row) take notes at the CMD-Kenya and Heinrich Bll forum.
forums and also went through AMWIKs training on effective media use. Happy Glorias political debut started in 1996 when she was elected the district chair of the Kanu Maendeleo ya Wanawake in Busia. She served in this post for a decade before moving to her present position as the provincial secretary in the same organisation. In 1997, Happy Gloria was elected councillor in Butula constituency. She was the first woman in the history of Butula to be elected to this position. Having served as a councillor, I felt that I needed to advance to a more influential position. I decided to go for the parliamentary seat on a Labour Party ticket, she recalls. As fate would have it, she did not succeed. In 2007, Happy Gloria
The CMD-Kenya forums help women deal with issues affecting them. There is a lot women can do to change the political destiny of this country Happy Gloria
vied again on a FORD-Kenya ticket, but owing to the ODM wave that had swept through Western Kenya, she was not elected. Its not that the constituents did not like me. I was sponsored by a less popular party. It is typical of Kenyans to vote for the party of the moment and not individuals, she said. Happy Gloria established the Ford-Kenya office in Butula and in 2010, she was elected the national vice chair in-charge of women and childrens affairs. She says her interest in the national politics is two-edged that is, to be able to influence the issue of maternal and reproductive health and to promote sustainable agriculture. I want to be able to knock on doors and push this agenda. Women do garagaria (menial) work, where they earn Sh50 per day. This money is all spent to meet the familys expenses, says the 52-year-old mother of five. It is unfortunate that an expectant women in some parts of Kenya is expected to buy gloves, a razor, cotton wool, which cost about Sh275 when she goes to deliver. In addition, there is the Sh500 fee for normal delivery and Sh1,000 if there are complications, she says.
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The Dawn
March-May, 2012
Flying high the flag of leadership

FROM PAGE 5
Q: How do you deal with stereotypes? A: You have to proof that you are a leader. When doing my work, I do not allow people to look at me as a woman. I want them to interact with me as a leader. For a woman to be accepted as a leader, one thing I have discovered is that you have to carry yourself around as a respectable person. Some of our cultures are not retrogressive. By this I mean that the society expects a woman to be presentable. Modesty dictates respect. Q: Do you think Kenya will elect a female president in the next election? A: Things are looking up for women but the country is not ready for a female president. Maybe in 2017.
rights and how to conduct successful campaigns. What is your campaign strategy? This is my first time running for a political office. I will mobilise resources to enable my campaign run smoothly.
Roselyne Ochieng aka Mama Maendeleo is a community leader at Komarock area in Nairobi. (ward representative).
Q: This is not your first time to run for a political seat? A: It is interesting that you ask me
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Fatima Nchizumo
A: This would have been possible if the interested individuals started their campaigns earlier. It is however never too late. Keep in mind that the African mindset is yet to accommodate the idea of a female president. But the rate at which issues are being addressed, Kenya will soon welcome a woman president. I hope this happens soon!
Nuria Gollo, 43, is the chairperson of Marsabit Women Advocacy and Development Organisation (ward representative).
Q: What has your experience been like at the Kenya National Womens Charter launch at Bomas of Kenya? A: This is the start of our campaign process as women aspirants across the country. During the two-day meeting, we have learnt what to expect and how to interact with the electorate. We have also been taught on our
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Fatima Salim Nchizumo is a councillor from Kwale. (ward representative)

How has the community reacted to you as a leader? So far, I have maintained a good working relationship with my people. I also have support from my husband and my three children as well as the extended family. However, I have faced challenges and received threats but that wont stop me. Do we live in a woman eat woman society? Yes! Women have little confidence each other. This I suppose is because of the way we have been socialized. Being in a patriarchal society, women tend to believe that men are supposed to be leaders. And this has greatly contributed in pulling down women eyeing political seats. This is the 21st Century where both genders have equal rights. We need to change our mindsets as women and about women leaders.
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Roselyn Ochieng
that because I am always challenged by people who believe women should not be interested in politics. Unlike what a majority of women may think, politics is not boring. Q: After meeting other women from rural Kenya, are you in a better place to vie since you are in Nairobi? A: As a woman seeking to be elected, it doesnt really matter whether you are in the urban area or rural. We are all fighting male dominance in the leadership sphere. The only advantage a woman in the urban area has over those in the rural areas is exposure. Q: Is Kenya ready for a woman president?
Nuria Gollo
The Dawn
March-May, 2012
-Profiles of women asPirants-
Womens rich diversity to spice

Halima Darro Shinke, 31-years-old, vying for women representative seat in Marsabit County. Munyathi Mutia, vying for ward representative seat in Kitui County. Talk of humble beginnings which are todays success stories thanks to her diligence, and the strength to move forward no matter how difficult the situation is. Munyathi was born in Mwingi North, the second born in a family of ten. She attended school and after doing her O level exams in the early 1980s, Munyathi decided to get into employment to substitute her familys meagre income. She worked as a hairdresser from 1986 to 1989 when she left for the long journey to Mombasa in search of greener pastures. In Mombasa, she was employed as a cook at the Ocean View Beach Hotel, a job she says she enjoyed doing. However, Munyathi still felt her calling was in serving the people of Kitui. In 1997, Munyathi plunged Fatuma Ahmed, vying for the ward representative seat in Marsabit County. Can you imagine being the only girl in a class of 18 boys? Fatuma attended Kangi Primary School and in her class, she was the only girl! She however did not get intimidated by the odd circumstance she sat through during school hours. She fended off discouragements and choose to focus on her studies. Perhaps that is why today, Fatuma is this strong, courageous and firm-defender of gender parity. Fatuma was born in Marsabit district in a little-known remote village called Kangi. After primary school, she joined St Theresa Girls Secondary School and later Kigari Teachers College. She graduated and went back home where she taught in several primary schools. Despite resistance from some of her colleagues citing traditional and cultural beliefs, Fatuma promoted girl-child education which led to swelling numbers of girls in schools, in an area where school-drop-out rate is the norm. Fatuma advocates for issues affecting marginalised communities, having experienced first-hand, life in the arid regions. Following frequent clashes mainly over pasture, Fatuma has found herself in unfamiliar territory where she is involved in spearheading peaceful rallies. Fatuma participated in the Constitution making process at the Bomas of Kenya, Nairobi. She serves as a board member at the Pastoralist Development Network of Kenya as well as the Action Aid International, Kenya.
rich diversity adding spice to politics
Halima Darro
At only 31 years of age, Halima Darro Shinke is a vibrant and ambitious woman with big dreams to liberate her community from the marginalisation that has dogged their development. Halima attended Isiolo Girls Secondary School and after sitting her KCSE, she proceeded to the Kenya School of Professional Studies where she attained a Diploma in Legal Studies. Her humility and desire to serve her people saw Halima volunteer to work as a human rights activist and shortly after, she became a member of the National Convention Executive Council (NCEC). Halima later worked with African Liberation Initiative. Having worked closely with her community, in 2005, Halima developed an interest in politics. Two years later, she vied for the Moyale parliamentary seat. Out of eight contestants, she emerged fifth and was the only woman to ever contest such a seat in the history of Moyale. Due to her prominence in the region, Halima was awarded a one year scholarship from Fredrick Ebert and Youth Agenda. She did a political leadership development programme. She landed a job with the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC) that was formed to foster peace and reconciliation after the skirmishes that rocked the country after the controversial 2007 general election.
Munyathi Mutia
into politics. Through her experience working with the community and with different NGOs in the area, Munyathi says it was easy for her to interact with the people of Kitui and her desire to represent their needs in Parliament is her driving force. Her determination has paid of as she is currently a nominated councillor at the Kitui Municipal Council. During a sensitisation training on effective media use organised by AMWIK, Munyathi, who is vying for the ward representative seat in Kitui county said she is grateful to the organisation for supporting womens bid to get into leadership. Munyathi is married and a proud mother of two.
Fatuma Ahmed
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The Dawn
March-May, 2012
-Profiles of women asPirants-
up the political landscape

Peninah Gaake, Marimanti ward representative aspirant. great interest in politics. He was the first MP for Embu North and even though he is departed, his teachings and principles are our guiding principles. Elizabeth attended Kibugu Primary School, and Sacred Heart in Kyeni. She graduated to Kenya High School where she discovered her prowess in sports. She was good at lawn Tennis, Basketball and Hockey. She also played football and learnt to swim. During her teenagehood, her mother passed on. This had negative impact on her and her siblings. Life took a turn for the worst, she faced challenges and hardships but she picked up the pieces and decided to move on. In a nutshell, she decided to turn her a difference in the lives of the less privileged in the society. That is why she is vying for the post of MP in Embu. She especially wants to uplift the standards of education, health services, farming for food security and youth accountability, availability of jobs through talents identification and development. Elizabeth has managed to take herself through education, from a P1 teacher to a Bachelor of Education graduate. She is currently pursuing her Masters in Project Planning and Management. Virginia Mueru, ward representative aspirant. When life offers you lemons, you make lemonade. Virginia knows this all too well. In 2005, her husband of ten years died. She was left with two boys and two girls to raise on her own. Although it was difficult at first, she gathered courage and strength from God to pursue her dreams and that of her children. Virginia was born in Uto sub-location in Kathiani, Machakos district. After school, Virginia ventured into the farming business. She later entered politics in 2006. She campaigned for Wavinya Ndeti, who won the Kathiani parliamentary seat. Wavinya is also the Youth Affairs and Sports assistant minister. In 2010 Virginia pursued a diploma in community social work and it is for this reason she aspires to contest the ward representative seat to address issues that concern women and the youth.
rich diversity adding spice to politics
Peninah Gaake
Peninah takes pride in achievements she has made despite her advanced age. Being elected councilor in 1992-1997 in Tharaka constituency in Turima ward (now Marimanti ward), she strived to promote education and managed to educate two children from poor families who could not afford school fees. Peninah was born in Nkondi settlement scheme in Nkondi location. She attended Nkondi primary school and was the best girls. She then attended Morrieol Secondary School. Peninah, married, and a proud mother of four, worked at the Chogoria Hospital in the 1980s for four years. As a councilor, Peninah focused her energies on education. She formed a committee for educating bright but poor children in the area. She was elected the treasurer of the committee. Penninah is currently the district peace committee in Tharaka South district. She has worked with Plan as a volunteer of Community Based Trainer. Peninah is eyeing the ward representative seat in the forthcoming general election. Elizabeth W. Mbogoli, parliamentary seat aspirant Elizabeth Wanjira Mbogoli was born 48 years ago at Kibugu in Embu county. I was brought up by a great mother who was also a strict disciplinarian and a father who had a
Elizabeth Mbogoli
scars into stars. She is now a professional teacher and loves it. She enjoys mentoring the youth. Elizabeth has been a volunteer with the Kenya Scouts Movement for over 20-years and before that, she worked with the Kenya Girl Guides. She has risen in rank to Area commissioner of scouts incharge of Embu. Elizabeth has also served with the Kenya Football Federation as a secretary and in-charge of women football in Embu. She has also served as a member of the constituency Aids Control Committee where she took part in sensitizing the public on HIV/Aids and educating masses on how to prevent transmission, care for the infected and affected and to get rid of stigma. She loves environmental conservation and enhancing education. Elizabeths aspiration is to make
Virginia Mueru
NOTE: These women from the Coast and Eastern provinces went through AMWIKs training on effective media use.
The Dawn
11
march-may, 2012
Turkana woman breaks the glass of gender discrimination and

By Collins Oyombe ver the years, Turkana district in Northern Kenya has been associated with under development, lack of infrastructure, famine, disease and low education levels. Born and raised in Turkana, one woman has defied the odds to bring positive change in this region she calls home. Joyce Akai Emanikor, popularly known as mama maendeleo, is the face of change so badly needed in Turkana. Born in the 60s, Joyce attended Lokori Primary School but as tradition dictates, she was married off, a practice aggravated by her familys poverty. Even though it was against her wish, Joyce counts herself lucky. Her husband, now a retired civil servant, encouraged her to pursue education. I got a lot of support from my husband to further my studies. This gave me more encouragement to pursue further studies and make a difference in my life and that of other people in my region and the county at large, a nostalgic Joyce says. I enrolled as a private student at Lodwar High School and later Sirikwa Secondary where I sat my final exam in 1984 and I performed excellently, she adds. On completion, Joyce took up teaching at a local primary school in Turkana and she was instrumental in evangelical work. She also got involved in guidance and counselling to shape the character of the young generation. My love for Christianity and the spreading of the gospel made me take an initiative of translating the Bible into Turkana language for my people. I mean, what better way to get the word of God to them other than through the language they identify with?, poses Joyce, adding that when she presented the idea to the Bible Society of Kenya, they were fascinated.
breaking glass ceiling of gender discrimination
As a teacher, Joyce was a role model to the girls in the area. She offered counseling sessions for those who had been subjected to retrogressive practices like early marriages. After several years of teaching, Joyce joined Daystar University in 1998 where four years later, she graduated with a first class honors degree in Bachelor of Arts in Community Development and Peace Building. She joined the Oxfam GB as a project officer in Turkana. With the advantage of working within her home area and having a deeper understanding of the plight of her people, Joyce pioneered the establishment of mobile schools, 80 of which are in Turkana county. She got a scholarship through the Ford Foundation International Fellowship Programme to study at Manchester University in the UK. She graduated with an MA in Development Studies. As an achiever, Joyce remained instrumental in development in her
region. During my time in Oxfam, I spearheaded the establishment of a consortium of education players in Turkana known as Turkana Education For All, whose task was to mobilise resources, coordinate and ensure provision of quality education to the people of Turkana, she say assertively. Apart from working at the Oxfam GB, Joyce has also held senior positions in the government including being the chairperson of Kerio Valley Development Authority. In various capacities that I have
As recognition for her outstanding work in Turkana and Kenya at large, Joyce received a Head of State Commendation from President Mwai Kibaki on December 12, 2011
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Joyce Akai Emanikor
march-may, 2012
ceiling oppression
worked in, I have served my community with a passion and I am glad I made positive change for the people. I have seen the education standard improve, women have been emancipated, there are irrigation projects in Turkana, water projects and above all, there is peace, says Joyce. True to her calling and passion, Joyce is a household name in Turkana due to her diligence and selfless nature. When I was in the UK, I had an opportunity to work there but I choose to come back so that I use the knowledge acquired to improve the lives of my people, she says. It is for this reason that elders in Turkana have encouraged Joyce to vie for the women representative seat in the region. Asked what she thinks, Joyce quips, Lets cross the bridge when we get there. I have received several requests to contest for the women representative seat for Turkana but I will let them know my stand when the time is right. However, a youth from the area, John Ekal, says Mama Joyce Emarikor is the woman to beat in the forthcoming elections. We as the youth have benefitted immensely from her work and dedication to change lives. She has been involved in our lives and it is evident she has our interest at heart, says a confident Ekal. The mother of four says the sky is the limit. She is currently pursuing her PhD in Environmental Studies, at Moi University. Joyce has a vision that One day, Turkana will be free from the indignity of under development, hunger, illiteracy, conflict, cattle rustling, insecurity and poverty. As recognition for her outstanding work in Turkana and Kenya at large, Joyce received a Head of State Commendation from President Mwai Kibaki on December 12, 2011. We wish Joyce all the best in her endeavours.
The Dawn
SUPPORTING WOmEN FOR LEADERSHIP
Womens rights defender with a passion for change

FROM PAGE 6
Justice Effie Owuor as a member of the Task Force on Laws Relating To Women. We visited many parts of the country and women got an opportunity to voice their concerns on marriage, divorce, inheritance, domestic violence etc. The recommendations of the taskforce are reflected in the pending bills namely Family Protection Bill, Marriage Bill and the Matrimonial Property Bill, says Lilian. I have also been the chairperson of Tunda na Roho Women Centre, a community based organisation in Kiambu. Through this organisation, I was able to co-ordinate the Gender and Governance Programme (GGPI & II) in Kiambu. Lilian has also participated in numerous workshops and seminars on the Constitution review. She has also participated in civic education on the constitution through the Centre for Multi Party Democracy, Law Society of Kenya, Democratic Party, the National Commission and Integrity Cohesion among others. In 2010, Lilian led other women in forming the Kiambu County Women Leadership Organisation. Registered under the Ministry of Gender, the organisation brings together women leaders and professionals for capacity building and civic education. The organisation also provides a forum through which women
Lilian joined Democratic Party (DP) in 2008 and has served as the national chairperson of the women congress in the party
share ideas and get solutions to issues affecting their lives. Unity is strength! Women in Kiambu want to make sure they achieve their gains as enshrined in the new constitution, she says. Lilian understands the importance of giving back to society. In 2009, she established Lilian Wakiiya Foundation whose goal is to educate orphans and children. So far, 60 boys and girls have been educated through her foundation. As a leader who wears many hats, and with over 35 years of legal practice, Fida and the Law Society of Kenya have awarded Lilian for her admirable leadership skills. She also scooped the Woman of the Year 2005 Award given by the American Bibliographical Institute for her excellent distinguished service on women issues. During the interview, Lilian exudes confidence that with God by her side, she will bag the Kiambu county women representative seat. She says women need to be determined to achieve gender parity in the August House because a 50:50 gender representation in Parliament is possible. Lilian joined Democratic Party (DP) in 2008 and has served as the national chairperson of the women congress in the party. Today, she says top on her agenda is economic empowerment of women, to work with them to establish cottage industries, train them on advocacy and leadership skills, educate them on their rights among others. With her wide experience, it will be interesting to see Lilian take on her competitors at country level as many already see her as a front runner for the women representative seat in Kiambu. Lilian is a mother of four grown-up children and a proud grandmother. We wish her well in her campaigns.
womens rights defender
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CMD-Kenya, Heinrich Bll action foru
CMD-Kenya, Heinrich Bll action forums

FROM PAGE 8
Most rural and low urban settlement women cannot afford this and that is why many of them suffer maternal morbidity because of over-stressed lifestyles, she adds. Happy Gloria further points out that there is a plan to phase-out the role of the traditional birth attendants owing to their limited ability to handle birth-related complications. However, poverty in the rural areas has forced them to continue attending to poor mothers who cannot afford to pay for services at public or private healthcare centres. Women die unnecessarily during childbirth, she says. Happy Gloria says maternal mortality, which is preventable, is common in rural areas. Although the government is a signatory of the Abuja Declaration, where the government pledged to increase its spending on health to at least 15 per cent, not much has been achieved, she says.
Agriculture is also close to Happy Glorias heart because her people in Butula have difficulties putting food on the table. She attributes this situation to poor agricultural practices and the fact that farmers are unable to buy good quality seeds and fertilisers. This scenario has perpetuated poverty in her constituency. In her opinion, the situation is redeemable. This can be achieved through the introduction of subsidies for agricultural inputs and value-addition to crops such as groundnuts, cassava, sugarcane and maize. These initiatives will improve the quality of life for women and the household. On women and politics, Happy Gloria has a word of caution: Where we have gone wrong as women is that once we are elected, we forget gender issues and get lost in party politics and intrigues. Women leaders must not de-link themselves from important issues affecting their fellow women. In her view, women can do this
individually through staying true to their commitment to fellow women and collectively being part of an umbrella body that keeps the womens agenda on track. She urges women to take advantage of their numbers and to become an irritant to the powers that be to ensure the implementation of the affirmative provision. She sees organisations such as the CMD-Kenya, where she has been involved since 2004, as fertile learning ground for women to network and be groomed for leadership. These forums empower women and give them tools of engagement to help them deal with issues affecting them. CMD has given me focus. I learnt that to succeed in politics, you must involve yourself in a political party and find your space. Women should prepare themselves to be in the leadership, she says. There is a lot women can do to change the political destiny of this country, says Happy Gloria in her closing remarks.

of Taita Taveta, Joyce believes that they should be the main beneficiaries of the ment, inheritance list is endless, resonate numerous resources in the area. Joyces vision is to see women change around the world. the world. We need someone to bring The new constitution has taken note of them out of the maginalisation cocoon. womens issues and aims to address the education needs, health needs, leadership Many women do not believe in themselves because of the social stereotypes and governance issues that face women daily. If I get elected, I will ensure the con- coined out to pin them down. Like any female political aspirant, her stitution is fully implemented. My calling is to represent, legislate and oversee equal ambition does not however come without its fair share of challenges. Being in a bidistribution of resources as well as emracial marriage, there is a perception that power women, she says. she is comfortable, has too much money Joyce has worked with women in most to finance her campaigns and that she is parts of the country. She was involved in too young and inexperienced. the building of a cooling plant for dairy People should know that leadership is farmers at the Coastal region through the not about age or money. What matters is Maziwa Taita Trust. the vision you have to represent and ofAt the moment, Brookside pays dairy farmers Sh3 million every month for their fer leadership to the people, a confident milk collections, Joyce says, adding that Joyce says. Joyce is currently pursuing a BA degree her vision is to liaise with investors to in Political Science and Sociology at the uplift the lives of the locals. I want to University of Nairobi and for the record, be the link between leadershe lets me know, I enjoy my work, ship and the electorate, school and taking care of my family. Joyce says. For the people
FROM PAGE 3
Photo courtesy of Photo House
The Dawn
March-May, 2012
The numbers are adding up to keep women in the lead

In politics if you want anything said, ask a man. If you want anything done, ask a woman Margaret Thatcher.
By Susan Mwangi ellen Njue knows how to add up her numbers, and she has a track record to prove it. She is a qualified accountant, and a graduate of the University of Nairobi, where she was awarded a Bachelor of Commerce degree in 1982. This was also the year she landed a job with Kenya Pipeline Company, and scaled the corporate ladder to the position of finance manager. After 20 years of balancing financial accounts at the state corporation, Hellen made a calculated decision to resign and venture into business. Armed with an MBA from ASAMI in strategic management, Hellen ventured into the male-dominated quarry business, where she mined stones for the construction industry. With the surplus from this income, she bought a piece of land in Kinangop where she is engaging in dairy farming. There is money to be made in farming, says Hellen, whose interest in agriculture has now gone into coffee farming. Hellen has been a director of the Coffee Development Fund since 2008, where she heads the Finance and Credit Committee. Their mandate is to revive and improve both the quality and the quantity of coffee in the country. Hellen says at the look of how the market is performing, the next decade will definitely favour coffee farmers. To take advantage of the boom, she has planted 1,200 additional coffee bushes in her home in Embu. In addition, CDF is developing a product called mama kahawa, which extends loans at 10 per cent interest to women in this industry. All the collateral required to access the Sh10 million revolving fund is for a woman to own a few coffee bushes. This flexibility is based on the fact that globally, women own less than 1 per cent of the titled land. CDF has made links with Women in Coffee, and are establishing the Kenyan chapter. They will create fo-
Hellen Njue makes her contribution at the forum.
rums and value for women throughout the coffee chain, from seed to cup. The international organisation buys coffee directly from the women farmers, a move that will cut out the middle-men. This association is aimed at building a more sustainable future for women in the coffee industry and their communities. Hellen says involving women in leadership enables them to be part of decision making, which is an opportunity to make pro-women policies, products and services. These moves will go a long way in improving the lives of women. It is estimated that of the worlds estimated 1 billion poor, 70 per cent are women.
The year Hellen went into politics and vied for the Manyatta constituency parliamentary seat on a Safina ticket
2007
Hellens journey to leadership started back in school, where she was the head-girl at Ngandu Girls High School (now known as Bishop Gatimu Girls). Although she did not vie for the elective posts while in university, Hellen was nonetheless involved in the political life of the institution. It was an oppressive time to be a student. It was the time when Kenya experience a coup-dtat. We would have university closures and we would be forced to report to our local chiefs several times a week, she recalls of the political turmoil of the early 1980s. In 2007, Hellen went into national politics and vied for the Manyatta constituency seat on a Safina ticket. Everything was moving smoothly until when negative propaganda was applied to undermine her campaign. The bone of contention was the fact that she was not born and raised in Embu. Her rivals made it look like she was an outsider. However, she has continued to engage in community work in her constituency. She observes that the two areas which she would focus on as an MP is education and agriculture. My constituency is not resource
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adding up the winning numbers
The Dawn
15
March-May, 2012
Disability is not inability for Kakamega woman eyeing the senator post
By Yvonne Mwende
Hellen Njue (R) with an unidentified participant take a break.
The numbers are adding up to keep women in the lead

adding up the winning numbers
FROM PAGE15
poor. We have many un-exploited resources, including human resource, she says. Hellen adds that education is key to bringing development in Manyatta. She says some of the challenges hindering girls from accessing education in most parts of the country are retrogressive practices like Female Genital Mutilation and early marriages. Hellen believes proper education offers sustainable development and as the adage goes, information is power, she says an educated population is a force to reckon with. She urges governments to invest in educating the young generations to encourage innovation, to create jobs and for economic growth. One way to tackle this problem would be building modern schools with boarding facilities to accommodate needy but bright students. By keeping the girls in school, they will be protected from the retrogressive practices that have an effect on their education. It is however saddening that there is no university in Embu, a situation I would like to see reversed, says Hellen. In the area of agriculture, Hellen says she will work towards improving the governance structures of the agricultural societies and refurbishing the mills. In the forthcoming general election, Hellen says she will be vying for the Manyatta seat on a United Republican Party ticket, where she is also the chair of the Women League. This is a national position and gives her a voice in the NEC, which is a decision making organ of the party. Hellen sees politics as a game of numbers and strategic positioning. According to her, the numbers in Manyatta constituency are beginning to add up, politically speaking! We wish Hellen all the best in her campaigns.
Mumias for her O-levels. She joined Kenya College of Communication and Technology, first met Godliver Omondi Mbagathi and then Government at the launch of the Kenya Training Institute where she National Womens Platform studied Information Technology. for Action 2012 in January. DurFor Godliver, learning is a neving the interview, I realised Goder ending process because to livers exuberance and un-vetoed date, she attends trainings and bubbly nature is contagious as forums organised by the United we chatted freely on issues conDisabled Persons of Kenya. cerning women and leadership Asked how she plans to fund in Kenya and around the globe. her campaign, Godliver says, For a woman who has lived I rely on well-wishers to assist with disability almost all her me with the funds needed. I am life, I was curious to know her confident that my supporters motivation behind joining poliwill see me through. Godliver tics. Godliver tells me she sufwill be vying for this seat on an fered a polio attack at 6-monthsODM ticket. old, a disease that confined her Godliver says her decision to to a wheelchair. vie for the senator seat has not The 40-year-old mother of six been without challenges. Al- three are adopted - is vying though there are some people for the senate seat in Kakamega who have encouraged me and county. It is her first time to vie they say I am a for an elective role model, there post. I want to be She has worked are those who a decision making at the Mumias have threatened organ to spearhead policies Municipal Council, me. It is a pity that political rivals use that are disability a job opportunity intimidating tacfriendly and disshe says enabled tics to discourage ability inclusive her understand their opponents, now that there are which in my view provisions in the the operations of is an uncivilized new constitution government way of doing polifor persons with tics, she says. disabilities, says We are in a democratic counGodliver who hails from Matry and with the promulgation of tungu constituency. the constitution, everyone has a Godliver readily admits that as democratic right to vote or vie a woman living with disability, for political office, as long as the society has not accepted she or he has met all the rethem. quirements and has qualified as She argues that people with stated in the Elections Act. disabilities are not considered Godliver says impunity is eatwhen laws are drafted, when ing away the operations of the contractors are building houses government and the progress or even roads. we make as a country. Having worked as a governWe are all equal and everyment employee for the better one deserves a chance to serve part of her life, Godliver bein whichever capacity one is lieves she is well prepared for interested in, she says. the job. Godliver has traversed across She has worked at the Mumias Kakamega to meet her supportMunicipal Council, a job opporers and sell her policies. She tunity she says enabled her unpromises to take her opponents derstand the operation systems head-on, both men and women. of government institutions. The Dawn wishes Godliver all Godliver schooled at Emakale the best in her campaigns to bag Primary School and was later the senator seat. admitted at St Marys Girls
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The Dawn
March-May, 2012
We change our attitudes, we change our lives

Going by logic, a woman must choose between the roles of career, politics and being a homemaker. For Elizabeth Karambu Kailemia, juggling the roles of mother, wife, corporate manager and politician is all in a days work
s she strides into her office in Nairobi, Elizabeth Kailemia stands out as a respectable, go-getter, focused and diligent woman, well-dressed, admirable and smart. Elizabeth, popularly known as Liz, is the general manager of Madawa and Ace Pharmaceuticals, twin companies she runs with her husband Dr Iruki Mwithalii Kailemia who is the managing director. After overseeing the business operations, Liz prepares to leave to pursue other matters that include advancing her political aspirations. As she drives off, she makes a brief stop at an M-Pesa agent to send money to her second-born daughter, Nkatha, who runs an outside catering business. Business can be tedious and demanding, Liz says. But nevertheless, you have to do your part and ask God for the strength to deliver. Every business has its tribulations and in the pharmacy industry, you cannot survive unless you sell goods on credit. Pursuing clients to ensure they pay is very exasperating despite hospitals and drugstores being given a 90 days credit period. It is challenging but rewarding, Liz says. Joining politics Why, then, did this middle-aged woman choose to add to her already brimming cup of toils by taking on politics? She explains, In 2003, when visiting Maua in Meru County, I was disturbed by the mundane planning of the urban centre. Maua is beautiful, but the towns planning is not so great, she says. Liz, who has toured countries like India, Australia, Bangladesh, South Africa, Italy and the United States, says after her return, she started an imaginary transformation of Meru town to conform to world standards. Slowly by slowly, this led her to nurture what turned out to be a political dream. Initially, she considered vying for a councillor seat but an acquaintance warned her that navigating the political tide can be a little like dancing on thorns. You could get killed, she was warned. The admonition almost scared her but her dream was too big to be intimidated. When I became acquainted to a former MP for Igembe, I thought he could induct me into politics but every
Elizabeth Kailemia is contesting for the county women representative seat in Meru.
change attitudes and lives
time I shared my dreams with him, I felt he had trouble conceptualising my ideas, Liz recalla. Again, Lizs passion fizzled out. It wasnt until the new Constitution was promulgated in 2010 that her dream bloomed. Suddenly, she wanted to represent not just a ward, not just a constituency, but a county. Today, Liz is a womens representative aspirant for Meru county. In 2010, Liz left for the US on a fact-finding mission. She met Kenyans in the diaspora (mainly those from Meru county), informed them about her political plans, and sought their ideas on how to develop Meru. We discussed the gains of the new Constitution, and their participation in the upcoming general election. Good chances Given that Meru comprises of three regions Igembe, Tigania and Imenti each of which makes specific political demands on persons vying for county seats, how good are Lizs chances of garnering support in all the three regions? The fact that Liz is a woman of
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The Dawn
17
March-May, 2012
training on effective use of media
Media a powerful partner AMWIK

By Joyce Nyaruai ver decades, the media has been criticised for its imbalanced coverage of gender issues. This has led to less coverage of activities being carried out by women, and especially those gearing up for elective seats as the general election draws near. Their male counterparts however are enjoying publicity, visibility and airplay as women shy away from the clicks and glares of the camera and prodding questions by journalists. The media is a platform where agendas are presented and getting publicity has a positive effect on a politician. Women have therefore been challenged to utilise the media and be available for press conferences and to volunteer to comment on issues when called upon to do so. Among most women aspirants, there is a misconception that it is an expensive affair to invite the media for coverage. Consequently, the women refrain to approach the media. There is also a general fear among the women aspirants that the media might also expose their private lives. Sometimes media atten-
tion is focused on issues like their hairstyles and mode of dressing and women feel like they are portrayed as sexual objects. This underestimation has over the years led to more stereotyping and therefore has contributed to women having a phobia for the media. In the light of this, the Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) last month held training sessions with women aspirants from Eastern and Coast provinces, to break the ice. The aim of the sensitisation forums was to enable women understand the structure and operations of the media houses and also interact with journalists in the print and electronic media. During the sessions, the
Jayne Rose
The aim of the sensitisation forums was to enable women understand the structure and operations of the media houses and also interact with journalists in the print and electronic media
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The Dawn
March-May, 2012
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT: Women aspirants in Embu are taken through a mock press briefing session.
WISE COUNSEL: AMWIK Executive Director Jane Thuo addresses women aspirants at a training held in Mombasa in May this year.
women were taught on how they can profile themselves through the print, electronic and social media to promote visibility. AMWIK invited bureau chiefs from the two regions and other journalists to interact and device ways of working with women aspirants. During the sessions, it was evident that women political aspirants truly need publicity. Amina Abdalla, who is vying for the Kisauni Member of the National Assembly seat shared her not so rosy encounter with the media.
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KEEN:Journalist Ngombao Kitwi addresses Eastern province women aspirants
The Dawn
19
NO TURNING BACK: Eastern province women aspirants came out in numbers to acquire skills in readiness for the campaigns.
AMWIK conducts training for women aspirants in Coast and Eastern provinces on effective media use
FROM PAGE 19
Amina said she has had a rough experience with the media after she sued a certain local media house for defamation. The media can make or break you. I was once misquoted over a drugs scandal and I took them to court for defamation. Since then, whenever I call the media for a function, they never show up. It seems like they have given me a blackout, says Amina. During the forum, Ngumbao Kithi, the bureau chief for the Standard Newspaper at the Coast, said it would be difficult for such a media house to give Amina coverage considering her encounter. However, she advised the women aspirants to work with the media and devise ways of solving problems amicably in the unfortunate event of a dispute. Mishi Mboko, a woman county representative aspirant for Mombasa said she has been hesitant to approach the media because calling the journalist is very expensive for me since a majority of them ask for money. Maureen Mudi, the chief correspondent of the Star Newspaper in Mombasa and AMWIK member, dismissed the claims saying women assume that the media should be paid for coverage because it is an open
secret that some politicians do so. She said such a practice goes against the norms of the ethics of journalism and no journalist should be given a bribe to do a story. Eunice Machuhi, a member of AMWIK and a Nation Media Group reporter based in Mombasa agreed with Maureen saying, You should deal with credible media houses and contact the bureau chiefs as they are the ones who assign stories. Addressing women aspirants from Eastern, Mercy Nthuku, a member of AMWIK and a presenter at Muga FM advised women aspirants to create a rapport with the journalists and became friends. Journalists have interlinkages and will always link you with other journalists for you to enjoy better coverage, said Mercy. Job Weru, a freelance journalist in Eastern province advised the women to be confident when addressing the media. The women were urged to
Addressing women aspirants from Eastern, Mercy Nthuku, a member of AMWIK and a presenter at Muga FM advised women aspirants to create a rapport with the journalists and became friends
use local media as compared to the national media, for convenience purposes. It is easier to interact with the local media as they understand the issues in the community as compared to national media, said Weru. During a presentation on how to profile and to use social media effectively, Kelvin Okoth challenged the women aspirants to sign up with social media and keep up with the new trends especially when targeting the youth. There are a total of 1,241,720 Facebook users in Kenya, out of which 63% are male users and 37% are female users, Twitter users are 70,000, according to statistics confirmed 12 months ago. As of now, the figure should be at around 220,000 Twitter users, said Okoth. He emphasized on the need to develop an online strategy to reach target groups. To ensure that the aspirants keep their political careers on track, communication consultant Jayne Rose Gacheri successfully took them through developing professional profiles that would provide a roadmap to their political career. AMWIK conducted two training workshops for women aspirants from Eastern and Coast provinces drawn from Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Machakos, Kitui, Isiolo, Marsabit, Makueni, Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Taita Taveta and Lamu.
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The Dawn
March-May, 2012
If we adapt a positive attitude, we change perception of life

FROM PAGE 17
Overcoming challenges in politics A challenge Liz feels bogs down aspiring politicians, especially women, is the cost of running campaigns. Politics in Kenya has been commercialized and the practice of buying votes appears to have worked well for some politicians in the constituency level, observes Liz. But can you give money to everyone in a county? Even the wealthiest of politicians, she says, are realizing that they must now change tact. What is happening today, she notes, is that politicians, after giving a speech to their supporters, must quietly walk away, without addressing these peoples tacit expectation for monetary handouts. Ultimately, these voters must elect someone. I believe they now must revert to merit as a selection criterion, she says. Lizs campaign is based on a platform of empowering women through education, infrastructural development, and introduction of socio-cultural change. It is because of this, that she feels she wants to embark on this lifechanging journey with her slogan being: We change our attitude we change our lives. Liz, attended Limuru Girls School and Highlands Girls School, Eldoret (now Moi Girls High School) for her O and A levels. She furthered her studies at the Kenya Science Teachers College and Kianda College. Liz, whose training is in education and administration, began working in 1980. Her first job was at the Kenya Power and Lighting Company, where she worked as the Personal Assistant to the Company Secretary. In the late 90s, she left formal employment after working in diverse capacities as programme officer for Plan International (a community-based NGO); as customerservice representative for Alico; and for C-Dorman Ltd (a coffee exporter), which also owns a chain of coffee shops in the country. She developed exceptional interpersonal skills to enable her integrate with colleagues and develop valuable friendships. Positive and keen to succeed, she acquired effective communication to inspire confidence. Perhaps a plaque sent to her by a niece she raised best captures Lizs achievements on the family front. Placed on the fireplace in her Karen living-room in Nairobi, the plaque reads: There are very few people as wonderful and caring as you. Thank you for everything youve done. Will Liz make it to the position of Meru county womens representative seat? Only time will tell. The Dawn wishes her the very best! For more information about Liz, visit her website: http://www.Elizakailemia.com/
NOTE: Dr. Kailemia is a beneficiary of AMWIKs training on effective leadership.
two worlds might propel her to the political arena in the country. Having been born and brought up in Imenti North makes her chances in Imenti quite good. Whats more, Liz is married to Dr Kailemia who hails from Igembe. Furthermore, Lizs meet-the-people forums in Tigania have been so successful that she is confident she is well-rounded than the other contenders to contest for the seat. My father, the late Nteere Mbogori, was an extra-ordinary leader, observes Liz. He is remembered for contributions he made both at the community and national level. These include the Nteere Mbogori Recreation Park
change attitudes and lives
Lizs campaign is based on a platform of empowering women through education, infrastructural development, and introduction of socio-cultural change. It is because of this, that she feels she wants to embark on this life-changing journey with her slogan being: We change our attitude we change our lives.
in Meru town. My dad pioneered the cooperative movement. While he was the superintendent for what was Meru Urban Council, he initiated the drive to employ women, a feat erstwhile unheard of. For his efforts, the women who benefited were later known as aka ba Nteere (Meru for Nteeres women), she says. Besides having a good leadership track record herself, Liz says she hopes to ride on her fathers achievements. The mother of five says her campaign has been focused on the grassroot level. I have met opinion leaders, pastors, youth leaders and womens groups. I have nine coordinators in every constituency of the county. I hope that, by July I will have completed nominating my campaigners up to the polling station level. Her official launch is planned for end of July, before the start of the campaigns.
The Dawn
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Margaret Gitari with Elizabeth Kailemia listen attentively at proceedings at the forum held in Embu.
Margaret gitaris vision for Maara

To ensure equal distribution of resources Enhance agricultural production
defying odds in male dominated landscape
Defying the odds in a male dominated political landscape

n the course of her career, Margaret Gitari has worked in many counties namely Kiambu, Tharaka Nithi, Western and Nyanza. She has been vocal in water issues and has endeavored to always make a positive change in areas she has worked in. While working in Kiambu, Margaret was voted one of the best officers in the district whereby she was awarded a certificate of excellence. When she was in Tharaka/Nithi, she worked very closely with Africa 2000 Network which saw her being awarded a certificate of excellence in recognition of outstanding performance in Environmental Management and Conservation after she initiated water projects in the area. Margaret has a diploma in Surface Water Technology that has seen her rise through the ranks to an Assistant Registrar of Water Rights at the Ministry of Water and Irrigation headquarters. She has successfully been involved in many activities in the ministry whereby she has been awarded several certificates of achievement. Besides her work, Margaret is an advocate of gender issues and has been holding seminars and workshops to advocate for the same. She has attended numerous courses on gender. She believes in giving equal
Promote gender equity Improve education, sustainable water projects for domestic and irrigation purposes Create health facilities in the rural areas for easy accessibility Create gainful employment for our youth Create programmes for the mentally and physically challenged Margaret believes in consultative leadership where all stakeholders participate in decision making since each leader is an expert in her/his own field. ment and stop depending on handouts that our politicians are fond of dishing out. She believes that the youth are the foundation of this country and that they should be respected and assisted accordingly. Another special interest she has is promoting the activities carried out by persons living with disabilities. Having interacted with them for sometime, she knows their short and long term needs and given a chance, she will put the ideas she has into reality by either improving on the institutions that are already there or putting up special ones where these people can be trained in specialized skills to earn a decent living. Margaret says she is devoted to create change in Maara. The Dawn wishes her all the best.
opportunities for all. She respects the Meru traditional set up but with the changing times, women have prooved that what a man can do, athey can do even better. She also believes in protection of the boychild as well as the girl-child. Margaret is a Maendeleo ya Wanawake life member. Women, she adds, have always taken a lead in social activities but have shied away from elective positions. She has stood out to seek an elective position of Member of the National Assembly of Maara constituency. Since independence, no woman has been elected MP in Maara. She has a Diploma in Theology and a Higher National Diploma in Guidance and Counselling. Margarets hobbies include travelling and she is ready to work with the wananchi at the grassroot where she says she is ready to face the challenges ahead. She believes that the voice of the locals should be taken seriously as this is where the governments functions begin. She has an agenda for the youth To help them make a net to be catching fish whenever need arises instead of giving them fish. This means that the she will assist the youth to have gainful employ-
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The Dawn
March-May, 2012
A born leader with a vision for the people of Mwingi North

eadership is in born and for Beth Kalunda Mutunga, being the first born in a family of five, she automatically took the mantle of leadership in shaping the future for her siblings. When she joined school, Beth was a prefect in primary school, a head-girl in high school and a student leader in university. Roles she carried out with diligence and discipline. Beth is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Community Development. Beth is the widow of Captain Paul Syengo who died in a tragic road accident in 1995. Though news of her husbands death was devastating, Beth took it in her stride to look after her three children and to give them the best in life. Having worked as a teacher at Lanet Secondary School and Mwingi Boys High School, Beth says she had a desire to join politics to be an agent of change. She experienced firsthand difficulties the residents of Mwingi faced in accessing clean water, lack of infrastructure like proper roads and poor farming techniques. In 2007, she resigned from teaching to join politics. She contested the Mwingi parliamentary seat against Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, who was defending his seat and was at the same time running for the presidency. Beth recalls her bumpy ride during the campaigns. Vying on a Mazingira Party ticket, she put up a fight to endure criticism from her rivals. She braved on and managed to come a close second to Kalonzo. Currently, Beth is the founder and executive director of the Kenya Network of Grass-root Women (KENGROW), a regional organisation that
is focused on empowering women socially, economically and politically. Community service and politics are intertwined and thats why Beth says she strives to take services to everyone in the community. Beths experience in community development spans from working at the Kenya Red Cross Society in Mwingi (treasurer); Njaa Marufuku Kenya in Mwingi (committee chairperson), Mwingi District Environmental Concern Group (vice chairperson) and she has also worked at the implementation of the Early Childhood Development Education programmes in Mwingi. Under Beths able-leadership, several community based organisations in Mwingi have successfully held fundraisings for various projects to improve water supply, healthcare, education and security. Since 2000, she has been carrying out projects in the community which have improved the living standards of more
Beth Kalunda contested the Mwingi parliamentary seat against Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, who was defending his seat and was at the same time running for the presidency
than 5,000 households. Beth is an ardent campaigner for girl-child education, a youth counsellor and facilitator for women empowerment. Her mission is to lead the people by initiating development activities for the future. In 2008, Beth was awarded the Head of State Commendation for her work in community service and poverty reduction in Mwingi. In 2009, she was also awarded a Commonwealth scholarship to study in the United Kingdom where she was attached to the Childrens Society. Beth is planning to contest the Mwingi North seat in the forthcoming general election. She is confident of a win because of her outstanding working record with the community. According to statistics, Mwingi is among constituencies in the country with a high illiteracy level especially among the women. Beth says she has put education as a top priority when she is elected. Incidents of insecurity have also increased in the region mainly caused by the shiftas. Conflicts over water and pasture for livestock are also rampant in the region. Mwingi North constituency is mostly a semi-arid area which poses a serious threat of food security in the area. Rainfall is mostly inadequate which makes it necessary for irrigation projects to be started, to ensure continuous supply of food. Beth believes that the people of Mwingi North need to be educated on new advanced farming methods to improve food security. And above all, the hardworking residents of Mwingi North need a leader who will work with them to better their lives.
A born leader with a vision
The Dawn
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March-May, 2012
UN Women dedicated to promoting women

n July 2010, the United Nations General Assembly created UN Women, the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women. In doing so, UN Member States took a historic step in accelerating the organisations goals on gender equality and the empowerment of women. The creation of UN Women came about as part of the UN reform agenda, bringing together resources and mandates for greater impact. It merges and builds on the important work of four previously distinct parts of the UN system, which focused exclusively on gender equality and womens empowerment: Division for the Advancement of Women (DAW) International Research and Training Institute for the Ad vancement of Women (INSTRAW) Office of the Special Adviser on Gender Issues and Advancement of Women (OSAGI) United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM)
UN Women involvement in democratic governance
THE MAIN ROLES OF UN WOMEN ARE: To support inter-governmental bodies, such as the Commission on the Status of Women, in their formulation of policies, global standards and norms. To help Member States to implement these standards, standing ready to provide suitable technical and financial support to those countries that request it, and to forge effective partnerships with civil society. To hold the UN system accountable for its own commitments on gender equality, including regular monitoring of system-wide progress. Meeting the needs of the worlds women. Over many decades, the UN has made significant progress in advancing gender equality, including through landmark agreements such as the Beijing Declaration and Plat-
form for Action and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). Gender equality is not only a basic human right, but its achievement has enormous socio-economic ramifications. Empowering women fuels thriving economies, spurring productivity and growth. Yet gender inequalities remain deeply entrenched in every society. Women lack access to decent work and face occupational segregation and gender wage gaps. They are too often denied access to basic education and health care. Women in all parts of the world suffer violence and discrimination. They are under-represented in political and economic decision-making processes. For many years, the UN has faced serious challenges in its efforts to promote gender equality globally, including inadequate funding and no single recognised driver to direct UN activities on gender equality issues. UN Women was created to address such challenges. It will be a dynamic and strong champion for women and girls, providing them with a powerful voice at the global, regional and local levels. Grounded in the vision of equality enshrined in the UN Charter, UN Women, among other issues, works for the: elimination of discrimination against women and girls; empowerment of women; and achievement of equality between women and men as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action and peace and security. Democratic Governance for women Studies show higher numbers of women in parliament generally contribute to stronger attention to womens issues. Womens political participation is a fundamental prerequisite for gender equality and genuine democracy. It facilitates womens direct engagement in public decision-making and is a means
of ensuring better accountability to women. Political accountability to women begins with increasing the number of women in decision-making positions, but it cannot stop there. What is required are gender-sensitive governance reforms that will make all elected officials more effective at promoting gender equality in public policy and ensuring their implementation. There has been significant progress in recent years: more and more women are seeking to transform politics itself, and womens groups are focusing on efforts to increase womens representation on the ballot to reinvigorate political accountability. Today, there are more women in government than ever before. The proportion of women parliamentarians at the national level has increased by 8 per cent in the decade from 1998 to 2008, to the current global average of 18.4 per cent, compared to an increase of just 1 per cent in the two decades after 1975. Yet, around the world, gender equality in democratic governance continues to be extremely limited. Women are outnumbered 4 to 1 in legislatures around the world. At mid-year 2009, only 17 heads of state or government were women. Even if the present accelerated rate of increase in womens representation continues as compared to previous decades, we are still a long way from reaching the parity zone of 4060 per cent. According to UN Women estimations, countries with first past the post electoral systems without any type of quota arrangements will not reach the 40-per cent threshold of women in public office until near to the end of this century. Many factors hinder womens political participation, such as political parties being slow to respond to womens interest, under-investment in womens campaigns, cultural barriers, and conflicting demands on the time of women candidates due to their domestic and social responsibilities. Quotas and other temporary special measures, such as reserved
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The Dawn
March-May, 2012
ns involvement in democratic governance

seats, are a proven means for supporting womens engagement in political competition. As of 2008, 18 of the 22 countries that boast 30 per cent or more women in national assemblies applied quotas in some form. Countries with proportional representation electoral systems and with quotas can expect to reach the 40-per cent threshold on average by 2026. UN WOMENS APPROACH One of the pillars of UN Womens work is advancing womens political participation and good governance, to ensure that decisionmaking processes are participatory, responsive, equitable and inclusive. Efforts are focused through strategic entry points that can advance the status of women by catalysing wide-ranging, long-term impacts. Support is provided to equip women to translate the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), now ratified by the majority of the worlds governments, into legal guarantees of gender equality. Another strategy is through working with multiple stakeholders, like womens organizations, governments, the UN system and the private sector, to bring more women into government, train women leaders, and boost womens skills to actively participate in elections as candidates and voters. UN Women is a co-sponsor of the global knowledge network iKNOW Politics, a web-based capacitybuilding.
UN Women involvement in democratic governance
FACTS AND FiGURES ON DEMOCRATiC GOVERNANCE

GLOBAL As of 2008, 18.4 per cent of national parliamentarians are female (as opposed to 11.6 per cent in 1995), and 17 heads of state or government worldwide are women. Rwanda has the highest number of women parliamentarians worldwide since the election in September 2008 (56 per cent of seats). A 30 per cent minimum for women in representative assemblies was set as a target at the Beijing conference in 1995, while the parity zone is considered between 4060 per cent. Since 1995, this 30 per cent benchmark set as the critical mass has been attained in 22 countries, including in six African coun tries. 95 countries worldwide apply some form of quotas. Out of the 22 countries that boast 30 per cent or more women in national assemblies, 18 of them applied quotas in some form. It will take developed countries at least 20 years and all other countries closer to 40 years to reach the parity zone of 40-60 percent. Countries with Proportional Representation electoral systems and with quotas can expect to reach the 40 percent threshold on aver age by 2026. Womens presence in public office represents one indicator for Goal 3 of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to promote gender equality and empower women. Higher numbers of women in parliament and other public office positions generally contribute to stronger attention to womens issues. Women in public office encourage greater political engagement by ordinary women. More women in politics is not correlative with a decrease of cor ruption, as often assumed. Rather, democratic and transparent politics is correlated with low corruption, and the two create an enabling environment for more women to participate in politics. As a regional average, women hold between 7.7 to 28.1 percent of ministerial posts, while individual countries range from 0 to 58 percent. A 2008 study in Latin America indicates a systematic discrepancy between the numbers of women as members of political parties and the numbers of women in leadership positions within these parties. For example, in Paraguay, 46.5 percent of party members are women, while 18.9 percent of executive posts in party leader ship are held by women. REGiONAL
The following numbers represent the average percentage of women parliamentarians in each region by mid-year 2008:
Sub-Saharan Africa: 16 per cent (ranging from 2 to 56 per cent within the region) Middle East & North Africa: 8 per cent (ranging from 0 to 26 per cent within the region) South Asia: 15 per cent (ranging from 3 to 34 per cent within the region) East Asia & Pacific: 11 per cent (ranging from 0 to 29 per cent within the region) Latin America & Caribbean: 18 per cent (ranging from 0 to 43 per cent within the region) Central & Eastern Europe/ CIS: 29 per cent (ranging from 6 to 16 per cent within the region) Developed Regions: 26 per cent (ranging from 9 to 47 per cent within the region)
For more information about UN Women, please visit: http://www.unwomen.org/about-us/ about-un-women/
The Dawn
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March-May, 2012
The world has enough for everyones needs
illo Mumina Konso is a teacher by profession and has served as an inspector and education officer. She also has experience in administrative work and politics. In July 2002, Mumina resigned from teaching to vie for the Isiolo South National Assembly seat, in a closely contested race of six aspirants. She made history by becoming the first woman from the pastoralist community to vie for the position, against a hostile non-level-playing-ground. Mumina was born in Garba Tulla district in 1966 and she attended Iresaboru Primary School, Machakos Girls Secondary School and Garba Tulla High School before she trained as a teacher at St. Lawrence College in Egoji. She is currently studying Economics and Government at the University of Nairobi. Wide experience Mumina is a human rights, gender and political activists. She has worked diligently to increase advancement and equal opportunities for pastoral women in her community. As a human rights crusader, she has fought for the rights of pastoral women at all levels. Her impact has been vastly felt from Isiolo, Marsabit, and Moyale districts in Upper Eastern region. To further her rights campaigns, Mumina founded the Women Access Programme, an NGO to strengthen the course of pastoral women empowerment and high level participation in leadership and in the decision making process. Women Access Programme is a vibrant network with a commitment to expand the space in which women can get involved in advocacy for womens and childrens rights. Mumina is a member of the board of directors of the Kenya Human Right Commission (KHRC), Women Political Caucus (WPC), League of Kenya Women Voters and is also the national official of Maendeleo Ya Wanawake Organization (MYWO). She has also worked with the Association of Media Women in Kenya to implement projects in her region. In addition, Mumina has participated in the
I will stop at nothing to uplift lives in Isiolo South Mumina
drought preparedness and intervention measures and recovery programme in Upper Eastern. As a way of giving back to society, Mumina has assisted many destitute children find homes and today, these children have proper shelter, food, education and undoubtably a bright future. In the forthcoming general election, Mumina has declared her candidature for the women county seat in Isiolo. Her interest in politics has been informed in her participation in peace-buildings and conflicts resolution in Modogashe, Garissa and Maikona. She was recently elected as a chair for the Borana Council of Elders. She wishes to serve as a transformative leader towards development of gender equality, development, peace and stability. In 2006, with the assistance of Urgent Action Fund Africa, Mumina organized several Women Peace and Leadership conferences for Upper Eastern districts of Isiolo, Marsabit and Moyale. Facing social injustices Although, the region is maginalized and backward in development, Muminas efforts to improve the lives of her people are evident and have been recognized within and across the border. In December 2003, she was awarded Head of States Commendation (HSC), Civilian Division for her daring and pre-imminent act of velour in pastoral women empowerment. This unstoppable woman believes that social justice cannot be achieved without the input of the community and the citizens. If I make it to office, I will take a human rights approach that upholds dignity and work towards fulfilling basic necessities of life to eradicate poverty, she says. I will also seek equality and fair distribution of resources, and broad orientation and implementation of development policies, tested by reference to criteria that further seeks to eradicate poverty, she adds. Mumina conforms to the words of the first President of Tanzania Mwalimu Julius Nyerere who said that Only when poverty is reduced, will existing political freedom become properly meaningful and the right to human dignify become a fact of life. Banditry and cattle rustling are impediment to progress and development in Upper Eastern region. Mumina says these are retrogressive practices which should be eliminated through a boost in security. We need peace for progress and prosperity right from family level to the county level to foster development, says Mumina. I hope to go to parliament to make a difference for the people of Isiolo county. In my experience, women suffer the brunt of bad leadership in the area because they have been neglected despite being the pillars of their families. Roles must therefore, be shared and there should be no absolute control. Muminas interest is in improving: Education According to Colin Flint, a British Educationalist, Education is a moving picture which seems to move even faster. Mumina says, I aspire to hold the picture up long enough for us to begin to describe it. By this I mean, I will seek experts assistance to place education as a top priority for fighting poverty It is unfortunate that the world is changing all over the world while locally, we still approach it in a
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The Dawn
March-May, 2012
Competition is healthy for women eyeing political office in Western Kenya

By Lilian Museka ollowing the announcement by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission that the next general election will be held on March 4, 2013, Hellen Mukanda breathed a sigh of relief knowing that she now has enough time to prepare for a win. Hellen, an aspirant for the Busia county women representative seat was worried that she would not have enough time to prepare, were the elections to be held in December. The date of election has been a subject of controversy in the past months, and following a court ruling, IEBC had to step in to fix the March 4, 2013 date. The two principals President Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga were yet to agree on a suitable date. And with many women aspirants, both old guards and young upcoming politicians in Busia county, I need time to have a strategy that I am sure
Hellens otHer priorities include:
Agricultural productivity and wealth creation:

Being her first priority, Hellen plans to optimise agricultural productivity along the value chain including production, processing, value addition, supplying and marketing of all farm produce. This is an area that women have been involved in for decades yet they do not benefit much.
employment creation:
Hellen believes focus on creating of both formal and informal jobs for women boosts their decision making authority in the home and they are able to fight retrogressive practices like FGM and early marriages etc, imposed on them.
will work for me, says Hellen, who has now embarked on a meet-thepeople-in-the-grassroots strategy. She has arranged meetings with women and youth representatives at sub-location level, the churches, schools and consultative forums to reach to voters and to sell her agenda. Initially, Hellen wanted to vie as an independent candidate as provided for in the constitution but after wide consultations, she was advised to identify a party, which she did. Her urge to articulate womens issues in her work has prompted her to vie for the post to be able to implement and develop policies. Busia county has five constituencies which include Budalangi, Nambale, Butula, Amagoro and Funyula. Statistics show that 52 per cent of eligible voters in this areas are women. So this gives Hellen an uphill task to win these crucial votes. The Constitution, promulgated in August 2010, reserved 47 parliamentary seats for women representatives who will be elected from each of the devolved county governments. Hellen notes that it was necessary to have the reserved seats as there was need for women to arise and help in solving their own issues. My desire to get into politics was as a result of the inadequacies of leaders in addressing the problems facing women and children, she says. Hellen admits that it will be a tough challenge as the contest for the women representative is already crowded, but adds that stiff competition is healthy. Old guards like Christine Mango and Julia Ojiambo in the county are a challenge to young entrants but I know how to win by maintaining the peoples trust. I know I have an uphill task meeting all these groups of people and convincing them that I am the right person to bring about the desired change through proper planning and use of the devolved funds that will be a fair budget compared to what private or non-state organisations manage, she points out. The aspirant says she will champion for the realisation of women and childrens rights; push for the women agenda in decision making table both locally and nationally; contribute to policy actualization; and development of new policies that favour growth of women. She calls on women with potential
Quality and inclusive healthcare:

To enforce supportive mechanisms in government to improve healthcare for the poor and maginalised will go a long way in providing these essential services. Improved healthcare for women is key in Hellens priority once she is elected.
not to shy away from vying for political positions. Hellen warns men who intimidate women competitors adding that the constitution is very clear on gender representation. In the past, women leaders were easily misled by men or got intimidated to drop from the race. There is therefore need for more civic education to show that women have the capacity to deliver, says Hellen. Hellen, 36, has over a decades experience in community development by promoting quality education, health-care, child protection, livelihood security and building-strengthening community structures and organisations such as schools, water projects, agriculture development steering committees and local community based organisations including women groups. She is a Forestry and Environmental health professional. Currently, she is the executive director of Grow Against Poverty Kenya, a non-governmental organisation based in Busia and working with women in agriculture, environment, HIV/Aids, gender mainstreaming and microfinance where they offer revolving loans to women. Hellen believes that women have to be in the driving seat to spearhead decision making that would lead to social and economic development of the county; not just for themselves, but for the children, youth and the communities. She says her priority will be empowering women in all key aspects including holding leaders accountable. She envisions a county where women are self-sustainable and lead in economic and social development of the region. Hellens drive stems the will-power to lead in changing the current situation where women take low profile in providing leadership and instead continue to suffer with high poverty index, dependency levels and high child and maternal mortality indicators coupled with unacceptable school drop outs by girls both at primary and secondary school levels.
The Dawn
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March-May, 2012
Embu women are not taking shortcuts to power and policy making
psychological counsellor, Rose has organised sessions to mould the youth and future generations on how to handle challenges in life and become achievers. As a community worker, she is currently pursuing her Master Degree in Development Studies at St. Pauls University. Roses desire is to work with women of Embu County in entrepreneurship. To be able to do this, she plans to widely consult the youth as well as men in the community. Rose counts herself lucky and she enjoys the support of her loving husband, children and the church in her political aspirations. Rose greatly appreciates the support of the Association of Media Women in Kenya who continuously supports the cause of women leadership in the country. Rhoda Kanini Munyao Rhoda Kanini is a successful business woman in the hair and beauty industry and has deeply interacted with women who make a majority of her clients. Rhoda was born to a humble family in 1968 in Kivari village in Machakos. She went to school in Lumbwa Primary School and later Mua Hills Secondary School where she did her KCS in 1989. Currently, Rhoda is doing a diploma in county governance at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, where she hopes to acquire knowledge and skills to enable her become a good leader. A woman plays multiple roles in society, from being a mother, wife, entrepreneur and leader among others. She got married in 1992 and is a mother of two girls who are studying at the University of Nairobi. Rhodas envisions a community that has taken charge of improving their lives through sustainable development projects. Her believe is that poverty can be eradicated, poor health services can be improved and improved education. Mary Nthenya Lkusya Marys calling into politics is not by default. In 2007, she campaigned for various politicians in her area and her input propelled them to public office. After the elections, she realized that she had the potential to offer leadership. Time waits for no man or woman and in 2010, Mary launched her campaign for the Kangundo West ward representative seat. Mary, 37, has been working as a community health worker and has focused on uniting the women and the youth and enlightening them on table banking and how to fight drug and alcohol abuse. Mary says she has achieved a lot through civic education. She has worked with the vulnerable and done counseling. Mary has worked with different institutions and organisations like Kenya Women Parliamentarians Association, FWRK, UN projects which have enabled her to interact with the community. Her role models are women leaders like Kathiani MP Wavinya Ndeti (she is also the Sports and Youth Affairs assistant minister) and Kitui Central MP Charity Ngilu.
NOTE: The women aspirants are beneficiaries of AMWIK training on effective media use.
The Dawn
Mary Nthenya
Rose Rwamda Mitaru ose Rwamda Mitaru was born and raised in Kathanjuri village in Embu district. She went to Icattanguri Primary School, Mufu Primary School and proceeded to City High School and University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, Canada. She is a mother of four adult children. Rose realized she has a special leadership skill at a tender age. She taught in church, and in school, she was a games captain. All through her school life, Rose was a role model to many of her colleagues and the same has applied in her professional life. Her career started off as a civil servant in the 1990s when Kenya hosted the fourth UN World Conference on Women. Rose was privileged and honored to work with women from the slums and from the affluent in society. While in civil service, Rose was promoted to Deputy Director of Family Life Programme in Kenya. She was then appointed to participate in the inter-ministerial committee in other government ministries in order to front the issues relating to women and children. During her work, Rose got the rare opportunity to tour the world where she observed that gender parity issues cut across the world. After serving in government, Rose got a calling to serve the people through the church. She joined the National Council of Churches of Kenya and worked in the Department of Advocacy which exposed her to advocacy for the youth and people living with HIV/Aids. During her time as an officer in NCCK, Rose realized the need to work with the youth. She has also supported the youth by working as a board member at Alliance Girls High School and Machanga Mixed High School. Rose has continued to serve in church as a member of the Synodin Mbeere ACK Diocese. In addition, as a trained
no shortcuts to power
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Rhoda Munyao
march-may, 2012
Zambias Inspector General of Police Stella Libongani
Zambia women steady strides to clinch elective seats

By Florence Gichoya he Zambian woman had been relegated for centuries. The preset position of the woman was to be a homemaker, to take care of her family and the community. During the pre-independence period, women were introduced to education and were able to join the workforce like their male counterparts. When Zambia gained independence from the British in 1964, women not only had access to education and career development, but they also attained leadership positions in the cooperate world. This development hardly translated into political leadership. A few weeks ago, I attended a youth meeting in Lusaka to brainstorm on the Contribution of Women in Zambias Development. One of the facilitators asked the attendees to name Zambian women politicians who inspire them. The young ladies had a difficult time to come up with the names. The participants were
President Michael Chilufya Sata has shown unwavering support for women leadership.
also asked to name women who have made milestones in the economic and social sector in Zambia. There were more than 10 names that quickly sprung from the audience. I later found out that for a long time, women representation in parliament in Zambia was nothing to write home. The few women MPs elected were not vocal on issues pertaining to women. The scenario is slowly changing. A new government, which came to power in September 2011, has focused in elevating women to leadership by giving them key positions in constitutional offices. When Zambian President Michael Chilufya Sata was sworn in (September 2011), he promised to advocate for womens issues. He appointed Stella Libongani to be the Inspector General of Police, a position never before held by a woman in Zambias history. Within the few months she has been in office, Stella has focused on upholding integrity in the police force. She is strengthening the victims support unit, where in every police station, there is a dedicated desk that deals with gender based violence cases. The Head of Anti-Corruption Commission and Head of Drug Enforcement Commission are other positions headed by women in Zambia. It is also imperative to note that Irene Mambilima was the first woman to lead the Electoral Commission of Zambia. She is credited for the peaceful, free and fair elections last year. There are more progressive gains in regards to womens issues.
Zambia is one of the few countries in the world that has adopted the International Womens Day as a public holiday. Women from all walks of life celebrate the day with pomp and colour. On this years International Womens Day, President Sata declared the Gender Development Division a fully-fledged ministry. Inongwe Wina now heads it. There are currently two women cabinet ministers. And six out of the 10 police commissioners in the country are women. In the run up to the 2011 elections, women organisations focused on training and equipping potential women candidates so that they can be sensitised to run for political office. However, the stereotypical perceptions on women are deeply rooted and many women shied away from elective seats. According to Grace Grillo, the chairperson of Non-Governmental Organisations Coordinating Council, Out of the 108 women who aspired for parliament for the 2011 polls, only 17 made it to the National Assembly. The political parties adopted 90 women and 18 were contesting as independent candidates. In 2006, Zambia had 12 per cent women representation in Parliament. In 2008 after the death of former president Levy Mwanawasa, there were elections and women took a mere 15 per cent. After the 2011 elections, the representation declined to 13 per cent. This is against the backdrop of the bulk of Zambian women voters. In last years elections, only 16 women were elected as members of parliament out of a possible 148 seats. There is however hope that more women will take up leadership positions in Zambia. For example, Ruth Dante contested in last years election as an independent candidate in Livingstone constituency. She had to work extra-hard to validate herself. She has not given up and she in 2016, she will contest. There is a unanimous agreement that there is a need to change strategy so that Zambia can meet her Millennium Development Goal of promoting gender equality and empowering women by 2015. This includes increasing their proportion of seats in parliament by 30 per cent representation. There are other international protocols that Zambia is a signatory, for instance the African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). These protocols aim at increasing women representation in parliament.
women to clinch elective seats
The Dawn
29
March-May, 2012
Breaking the chains of injustices to liberate women

By Anne Mbotela Wahu Kaara is a down-to-earth, dynamic and proudly Kenyan woman. When you meet her, Wahus confidence and her ever-permanent smile is uplifting. Wahu stands out as an all-rounded-multi-achiever who has taken her place in society. Her enthusiasm is infectious and this is why. Wahu was born in 1952 and raised in Eldoret, Rift Valley at the height of the struggle of independence in Kenya. During this time, she experienced injustices meted on Kenyans, and especially women, experiences she says provoked her undying quest for social justice. Wahu was determined to walk the talk. In the controversial 2007 general election, she vied for the Starehe parliamentary seat in 2007 albeit unsuccessfully. Though widowed at an early age, this mother of four and grandmother to many, did not let her marital status stand in her ambition. In Kenya, marital status of a woman is a stereotype used to oppress, intimidate and discriminate against women. Some communities look down upon women who are single, divorced or widowed and they are viewed as incomplete. Having tried her hands in politics, Wahu, a firm Christian believer says the leadership of women cannot be taken for granted in forming the next government. Wahu is a globally renowned Kenyan educator, activist and campaigner for social justice. A prolific writer, poet and speaker, this 60-yearold has devoted her time and energy to civic engagement and incisive analysis of the global political and economic architecture. Last year, Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice recognised Wahus efforts and she was awarded the prestigious Woman Peacemaker Award 2011. Wahus achievements are in leaps and bounds. She participated in the Bomas Led Initiative towards the realisation of the new constitution. Tracing back her journey to leadership, it is documented that as a student at Kenyatta University during the wave of political activism in the 1970s, Wahus pro-democracy activism was impressive and no doubt her professors encouraged her to soldier on. In the 1990s, under the oppressive rule of former President Daniel arap Moi, Wahu was among others, Nobel Laureate Wangari Maathai, in the call of the release of political prisoners. Wahu and a group of mothers whose sons had been imprisoned petitioned the then Attorney General Amos Wako to deliver justice. Under the dictatorship rule, orders could only come from above and this prompted the women to stage a protest to draw the attention of the international community. The women staged a hunger strike for days on end at what is now known as Freedom Corner at Uhuru Park in Nairobi. At one time during their peaceful hunger strike, police were ordered to disperse the protest. The local media reported the police brutality on the women. This led to mass action and condemnation of the government from the international community. The women did not relent. They relocated to St Andrews ACK for protection. After prolonged pushing and shoving, the 52 political prisoners were released. The Gem Foundation portrays Wahu as a woman who has campaigned and written extensively on debt, aid, privatisation and human rights and has been a leader in the Africa and Kenya Social Forum councils that organised the inaugural World Social Forum in Africa in Nairobi in January 2007. Together with former Brazilian President Lula Ignacio d Silva, she launched the Global Call to Action against Poverty (GCAP) in Brazil (January 2005), the single largest global mobilisation of citizens against poverty. She has been a member of an advocate for Jubilee San Diego. In September 2005 in NewYork, Wahu, upon invitation to the 58th Annual UN Conference, she had this to say: In our pursuit for global justice and creating a better world that will uphold our heritage, we have come a long way. I stand before you today as an African woman. As a person who daily experiences the pain and indignity of hunger, disease and illiteracy. For one who works at the grassroots level, it is a rare honor for me to be even given such an opportunity. No single country, no single man or woman can be developed. Development is only possible if it emerges from the society, if people can decide which kind of modernity they want Wahu is currently the executive director of the Kenya Debt Relief Network. A gender trainer and one who mobilizes communities, Wahu has been at the lead of integrating local communities in the decision making process. In addition, she has served at the African Social Forum and the Africa Women Economic Policy Network. She is also involved in the creation of the Africa Mothers Foundation, a nascent continental body that will serve to document the richness of womens contribution in the development of Africa and allow their voices to be heard.
Breaking the chains of injustices
30
The Dawn
March-May, 2012
Kenya Womens National Charter aims to break the cultural barriers influencing womens choice of leadership positions
By Mercy Njoroge here is nothing novel about the idea of cultural barriers to womens advancement. Many accounts based on theories of socialisation have long emphasised the importance of the division of sex roles within a community or a country especially egalitarian or traditional attributes towards women as political leaders. The political culture may plausibly influence whether women are prepared to come forward as candidates for office as well as the criteria used by gatekeepers like party members and leaders, the media, financial supporters or the electorate when evaluating suitable candidates. In traditional cultures, women may be reluctant to run and if they seek office, they may fail to attract sufficient support to win. It is for this, and many other reasons, that Kenyan women have risen up and are now sitting at the decision making table to negotiate for what is rightfully theirs. It is a natural attribute for women to avoid conflicts and in most cases they get off the table quickly. In contrast, alliances among men are more solid. In Kenya, women have now formed networks to propel themselves to leadership. The Women Empowerment Link (WEL), in collaboration with 34 like-minded partners under the Mwamko Mpya, Uongozi Bora Project, spearheaded the development of the Kenya Womens National Charter that was launched in January this year. The Charter was launched during the National Women Leadership Platform for Action 2012 at the Bomas of Kenya with an attendance of over 1,500 women aspirants and those in leadership. The Charter developed by Prof Maria Nzomo recognises the fact that women are still discriminated against and marginalised in politics even under the new Constitution. Subsequently, during a media training held in February at the Laico Regency in Nairobi, the director of WEL, Grace Mbugua, emphasised the need for women to be
involved in the decision-making process ahead of the general election. She said the aim of the Charter is to present womens concerns and make clear their expectations as the country prepares to get into the devolved system of government. According to the 2009 National Population Census, women make up over half (52 per cent) of Kenyas population and the governance of the country greatly affects their lives. The Charter therefore serves as a baseline for women in Kenya to attain gender equality. In 1997, the few women leaders in government demanded affirmative action to realise their goals in a society that is largely patriarchal. The Affirmative Action Bill paved way for the formation of numerous women rights movements, who have worked hand-in-hand to achieve the dream and the passing of the Constitution in 2010.
Womens National Charter
The kenya Womens naTional CharTer makes demands for Women in 17 arTiCles, WhiCh are on:
Elimination of discrimination against women Rights to dignity and respect Realisation of freedom from sexual and gender based violence Recognition of women rights and equality in family and marriage Promoting equality in access to justice Promoting effective representation of women in leadership and governance Realisation of economic and social rights for women Sustainable development and womens economic empowerment Gender equality in opportunity and access to education and training Reproductive and Healthcare rights Culture and womens empowerment Special protection of elderly women and women with disabilities Role of the media in promotion of womens empowerment Rights and responsibilities of women in promotion of peace Mechanisms and strategies for realising gender and womens rights Our commitment as women
The key roles of The kenya Womens naTional CharTer inClude:

Providing key areas of priority for women as well as Kenyans in the next government. As such, the Charter will be used as a campaign tool for the women seeking for political solutions and benchmark for the women leaders during their tenure.
The Charter also provides clarity and timelines demands on the realisation of the women gains in the new Constitution. The Women Charter further acts as a demand tool for the women especially to those seeking political position. As such, the women will demand for commitment to the Charter by other aspirants.
The Dawn
31
Waving goodbye to womens stunted contribution in politics

Shunem Gatiri
Shunem Ngira Gatiri hunem hails from Hichunguri village in Kiambere, Embu County. She schooled at Kiambere Primary School and joined Mariari Girls Secondary School in 1989 where she sat for her O levels. She was an active drama club member and a girl guide all through her school life. She also liked music and performed at national and provincial levels. In 1993 after completing school, Shunem joined a local NGO, Plan International, as a community assistance where she worked for three years. In 1996, she got married and afterwards landed a teaching job in Nairobi before quitting and going back to community work. She joined Concern Worldwide where she worked with vulnerable women and children in the community. She has also worked with APHIA plus in a HIV/ Aids project that aims to stop stigmatisation of the infected and the affected. Shunem is currently the Constituency Development Fund Committee member. She has been involved in small groups activities within her locality. Shunem likes exchanging ideas and has enrolled for a Diploma in County Governance at the Jomo Kenya University of Agriculture and Technology. She is a firm believer that knowledge is power. In 2007 and 2010 referendum, she was involved in civic education having being trained by Citizens Coalition for Constitutional Culture. She also worked as an observer during the referendum. Shunem seeks to work with the entire Mbere community and especially women groups who are oppressed. Shunem believes she can make a good leader and with all the authority given to her she can make things work in a more efficient way without discrimination. Jacqueline Nziva Munyao Jacqueline is a vibrant 31-year-old woman who is hardworking, fearless and outspoken. At the age of 26, Jacque-
womens stunted contribution in politics
line vied for a civic seat and was later chosen the chairperson of environment in the County Council of Masaku. Jacqueline was born in Yatta in Machakos where she schooled and later pursued a diploma in Social Work and Development at the University of Nairobi. She is happily married and a mother of one boy. Having worked at the council, Jacqueline has a vision to improve infrastructure including the road network, social amenities like water, proper healthcare and security. She has a vision to uplift the education standards, expand opportunities and living conditions of people in her region. Jacqueline has been working as a community health-worker by bringing women together. She has worked with women and enlightened them on tablebanking and encouraging a money-saving culture. She has done civic education and has done community service as a councillor for people living with HIV/Aids. She has managed to work with different NGOs such as FWRK, KEWOPA and the UN who have assisted the people of her ward. She draws her inspirations from Kathiani MP Wavinya Ndeti and Kitui Central MP Charity Ngilu. I intend to be the servant of my people, she says. Amina Mohammed (vying for the ward representative seat in Kangi, Marsabit). Amina was born and grew up in a remote village called Kangi in Marsabit County. She schooled at Kangi Primary School and later joined Moi Girls High School and later Utalii College in Nairobi where she took a course in housekeeping. She is an active community worker and has volunteered in various organisations such as the Kenya Red Cross Society, World Vision and Supkem. She worked with the defunct Electoral Commission of Kenya during the voters card registration process in Marsabit. Amina is a mother of three and during forums and workshops with women in her area, she urges them to take up leadership to advocate for policies that will improve their lives. Amina says women face many challenges including finances, intimidation and violence during campaigns but that
does not deter her from vying for the ward representative seat in Marsabit.
Amina Mohammed
Assumpta Mwangangi (vying for the Kaveta ward representative seat) Assumpta is the fifth born in a family of ten and for her, growing up in such a large family was a tough but enjoyable calling. She had to take care of her younger siblings and as such, started the art of juggling responsibilities at a tender age. Assumpta was born in Ndumoini sublocation in Kitui County and attended Ndumoini Primary School. She proceeded to Machakos Girls High School and later took up a secretariat course at the Kianda Secretariat College in Nairobi. She got employed at the Catholic Diocese of Kitui where she worked for 28 years. While working at the diocese, Assumpta helped needy girls who had been sent home for lack of fees and some who dropped out of school due to early pregnancies. While working, she developed a desire for leadership and in 2007 Assumpta launched her campaign bid. Little did she know what she was getting herself into. Her political rivals tried to intimidate her and a gang raided her home threatening to kill her if she did not call off her political aspirations. The gang broke into her home, destroyed property and beat her, her husband and three sons, leaving them for dead. Neighbours who heard the commotion came to their rescue and Assumptas family was rushed to Kitui General Hospital for treatment. They were later transferred to Mater Hospital in Nairobi for further treatment. She stayed in hospital for several
The Dawn
Jacqueline Munyao
march-may, 2012
Assumpta Mwangangi
weeks and after being discharged, she continued with her campaigns. She went for nomination in October 2007 and won on an ODM-K ticket. She defeated nine men and one lady to win the Kaveta ward civic seat in Kitui Central Constituency. Assupmta says women leadership is feared because they do not tolerate corruption and get-rich-quick schemes. She has worked with her constituents to improve education standards, build schools and improve infrastructure and has been in the forefront to promote bursary disbursement for the bright but needy children. Assumpta says she is working towards wiping out the culture of handouts, which has made the youth unproductive. Assumpta will be defending her seat in the forthcoming general election. Grace Ntembi Nduyo (vying for the women county representative in Tharaka Nithi County) Grace Ntembi Nduyo is a confident, self-driven mother of four who hails from Tharaka. When she completed school, Grace was first employed as a clerk at the Office of the President in 1979. She worked for 18 years and during her tenure, she carried out various responsibilities like chair of the welfare club and organising secretary for all Catholic staff welfare. Grace was appointed the district coordinator for the National Council of Women in Kenya (NCWK). This gave her a chance to meet more women across the district. She conducted civic education reaching out to over 4,000 women in the district educating them on the rights of women. NCWK supported her to do a course in community development at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). Narc Kenya nominated her as a councillor in Tharaka Nithi County Council and was later chosen as a womans representative at the Bomas of Kenya in 2004 during the constitution review process. She was inspired to do a project to help vulnerable children com-
plete higher education. She managed to mobilize stakeholders and professionals drawn from NCWK, Plan International, GTZ-Finland and other local elites. She was elected the NCWK national treasurer in 2009. She has been to international conferences in New York, USA and has established a network of development partners She vied for the Tharaka parliamentary seat in 2007. Grace is eyeing the women representative seat in Tharaka Nithi. She is seeking to invest in women of Tharaka Nithi to improve agriculture for economic development and food security. She hopes to establish a grassroot savings micro-finance organisation to enable women easily access loans. Purity Wanja Mritha Purity was born and brought up in Chogoria division, Maara constituency Tharaka Nithi County. She attended Mutindwa and Kathituni primary schools in Chogoria. She then proceeded to St. Angelas Girls High School in Kitui County and completed her secondary education in 1986. She is married to Dr Kanampin Mrithaa and are blessed with four boys aged between 14 -21 years. After her secondary education, Purity joined Kenyatta University as a librarian for two years and joined La-Belle Academy in London for a diploma in Cosmetology and Beauty Therapy. She later opened her beauty clinic in 1995 and worked as a beauty consultant and manager. In 2007, Purity joined Hampton College in South Africa to do a diploma in community development and social work. Purity has a passion for community development because she believes in people-power. After attaining her diploma, she registered a communitybased organisation called Maara District Table-Banking Services (MADTBS). MADTBS was started in 2009 in Maara District and its main objective is to empower people at the grassroots level with training information and financial empowerment. The organisation helps the locals realise their potential and also helps them budget for their own resources to improve living conditions. MADTBS links the community with different stakeholders like the governments Women Enterprise Fund and the Youth Fund. The concept of table banking is unique in the sense that groups pull resources together on a round table and they borrow the money and pay back at the end of the month with a small interest rate. The concept has been able to bring together 34 groups and continues to grow every month. She targets to have 100 groups by end of 2012. The group members have been able to raise Sh9 million.
Purity is working towards partnering with likeminded organisations that can fund some of these groups for bigger projects. Her mission is to eradicate poverty. She has worked with the community and has decided to be the voice of the voiceless.Purity will be vying for the ward representative seat in Chogoria, Tharaka Nithi County.
Purity Mritha
Asha Abdirahman Guyo (vying for Bula Pesa ward, Isiolo) Asha is a dynamic and enthusiastic 43-year-old who has been in the campaign (as a campaign manager) trail of many high-flying politicians in Kenya. Having tested the waters, Asha is geared up for the battle royale for the ward representative seat of Bula Pesa ward in Isiolo. Asha was born and raised in Isiolo. Having lived all her life in the area, Asha understands the challenges that come with a pastoral lifestyle, and the hardships that they face in the arid and semi-arid areas of Kenya. She has been a district secretary for Maendeleo ya Wanawake Organisation
Asha Guyo
and is a member of the Women Access Programme International. Asha is also the chairlady of Rekebisha Youth which stands for transforming the youth and is also a board member of several organisations in Isiolo.
NOTE: The women aspirants are beneficiaries of AMWIK training on effective media use.
Grace Nduyo
33
march-may, 2012
I will stop at nothing to uplift lives in Isiolo South Mumina

the world has enough for everyones needs
FROM PAGE 26
Roads and communication Good road network is essential for development. Mumina plans to work on the almost non-existent road network in Upper Eastern region. She also has a vision of bringing electricity and water to the people. Poverty eradication Poverty eradication starts with the people. Poverty level in Northern Kenya is high and urgent solutions are needed to reverse the situation. Despite there being several self-help groups, women organisation groups and a handful of NGOs and communitybased organisations, insignificant progress has been made in poverty eradication. Rehabilitation of cash-strapped community-based organizations is one way of improving service delivery in the area, as well as involvement of donors in projects undertaken in the region. Water Water is life. In the Upper Eastern region, water is scarce due to its geographical and climatic condition. Mumina however believes that with the advanced technology, tapped water in homes in Upper Eastern an be a reality. Short-term solutions to the water problem can involve rehabilitation of traditional wells, water points and dams. Mumina is keen on transparent and accountability in funds issued for projects like water and roads construction, a trait she says is absent in most leaders. This go-getter and diligent leader says her focus is working with community organisations to provide water for both domestic and irrigation purposes. She also hopes to cultivate an atmosphere of understanding, co-operation, peaceful co-existence, and restore peace. Commerce and trade Expanding the space in which women participate in the business industry in micro-enterprises as well as agriculture is a sure way of progressive economic growth in a country. Improving womens access to vocational training, science and technology as well as continuing education ensures sustainable development and economic stability. Mumina hopes to be in the inner-circles in promoting and establishing finance trust fund for women and youth in the grassroots level. In addition, she plans to solicit funding for women and youth development, conduct research on production of handcrafts among other products. Mumina concludes by saying she believes in change because Kenyans have proved they are hardworking people and all they need is focused leadership which she is ready to offer.
traditional way. Information Communication Technology (ICT) is a new concept without which one can be considered illiterate. Mumina says she will be in the forefront in advocating for the teaching of Information Science to both our teachers and students. In Kenya, the level of brain-drain, brain-flight and even brain-rot is alarming. In other parts like Northern Kenya, we talk of untapped talent or even brain stagnation or lack of opportunities for our youth because of poor planning and corruption, says Mumina. I look forward to the day I will have an opportunity to mobilize my community to gear towards tapping and nurturing talent, she adds. She believes that there is a solution to the high school dropout rates caused by early marriages, lack of school fees due to poverty, improper planning and poor leadership in the area. Mumina takes pride in knowing that in recent years, the glory of Garba Tulla High School has been regained through rehabilitation of facilities through government support. Health Management of health service has been poor over the decades in most rural areas of the country. Medical facilities are not easily accessible, lack of adequate medicine and clinical personnel remain a concern. Mumina believes that for a nation to be healthy, the healthcare system should run efficiently and smoothly. Gender and youth development To accelerate political, social and economic development, Mumina plans to utilise the enormous human resource in women and the youth in the country because they are the backbone of our economy. Proper planning and management of the Youth Fund and the Women Trust Fund is key to the realization of a prosperous society. Urgent on my list of agenda will be to improve marketing opportunities for projects that women and the youth are involved in, notes Mumina.
34
The Dawn
March-May, 2012
Borrowing leadership tips from women in the corporate world

As the general election draws near, women aspirants are rolling up their sleeves to contest for elective seats. If they make it to the decision making positions in the country, then their leadership will definitely have an impact on among other areas, the corporate world. Our writer Umi Wabomba spoke to Agatha Juma, the CEO of the Kenya Tourism Federation.
ow can the involvement of women in politics improve economic growth of the country?
fine charged on him. The health of our nation cannot be compromised for negligible economic gain. As a woman in corporate leadership position, what are some of the challenges you encounter as a decision maker especially during boardroom wars? Dealing with divergent views, ego management, consensus building and getting people to be actively engaged around issues to their conclusion. It is a challenging moment as a woman but you have to stand by what you believe in and soldier on. How have these challenges shaped your personality? I have developed thick skin! By this I mean that I have learnt how to argue out issues in a professional way, think on my feet, get quick solutions, act fast in times of a crisis and still not break under pressure. I have also been humbled by the experience and have developed patience and I must say I am a good listener.
Empowering citizens to take responsibility of their destiny can do this. Through civic education, the citizens can learn how to manage basic resources through even distribution of resources to boost economic growth. Unless this is done, we cannot exploit our full potential. Women have however proved to be good managers of resources and are less corrupt.
Women contribute to the largest percent of industrial workers (in flow-
which has over 50 per cent women representation in Parliament. Why is it so difficult, especially in Africa, for women to climb the ladder of leadership? Women have always led not just in the public arena. They fend for their families and offer guidance to their communities. Besides, you know what they say: behind successful men there are strong women (be it the mother, sister, wife etc). One of the barriers we need to break as women is to stop shying away from leadership positions and politics. Naturally, women are sensitive to criticism, ridicule and threats to their lives, a sub-conscious behaviour in protecting their families. I think this greatly contributes to women keeping off public office. As society changes and the gender roles shift, these barriers are weakening. However, women seeking to hold public leadership positions have to be more aggressive. As the country goes towards a devolved government, the governor will be seen as the CEO of a county. What are some of the attributes of professionalism that will be expected of the holders of such positions? A county whose leader has the following key attributes among others will be a great asset to his/her people: active listener, consensus builder and arbitrator and with professional strategic management skills. What tips on mobilisation and consensus building can you share with the women aspirants from your experiences in the corporate world? It is important to know the needs and desires of those you wish to work with. Ultimately, people are looking for leadership, guidance, hope and support. Would you vie for a political office under the new constitution? No. It seems Agatha has her plate full to think of joining politics. But women politicians have a lot to learn from their counterparts in the corporate world. The challenge is for the women political aspirants to take a tip or two as they campaign for the seats. Good luck!
borrowing leadership tips
Will the face of politics change if more Agatha Juma is the CEO of the Kenya Tourism Federation. women are elected to leadership positions? er farms, Export Processing Zones I think the face of politics will change (EPZs) etc). It is common knowledge if only we elect people who are dethat the working conditions in most velopment conscious, people of inof these industries do not favour tegrity and those who have a vision women. How can this be improved? for this country. Electing a woman By having legislation that provides who neither has the interest of people the basic requirements on workers at heart, nor one who understands the rights in relation to working hours, needs of her electorate is worse than wages, sanitation, health and safety, having a man who does. the working condition of both women and men can be achieved. This In countries like Brazil, Argentina, should be enforced and if the investor Chile and Nicaragua they had, or still violates this, the law should state the have, women presidents. In Africa, repercussion i.e the investor risks havit is only Liberia and Malawi which ing his business closed and a heavy have female presidents, and Rwanda
The Dawn
35
Association of Media Womwn inKenya (AMWIK) Wendy Court, House No. 6. David Osieli Rd., off Waiyaki Way, Westlands P. O. Box 10327-00100 Nairobi Kenya
Tel: 254-20-4441226 Tel/Fax: 254-20-4441227 Mobile: 0722-0737 201958
Email: info@amwik.org Website: www.amwik.org

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SUPPORTING WOMEN FOR LEADERSHIP

Issue No. 3 march-may. 2012 a quarterly newsletter of the GGP Programme

Womens rights defender With a passion for change

Note from the Editor

Young, ambitious, determined aspirant aiming for the stars

Flying high the flag of leadership in maginalised communities

Zambian womans fight against patriarchy in politics

CMD-Kenya and Heinrich Bll affirmative forums

Womens rich diversity to spice up the political landscape

Breaking the glass ceiling of gender discrimination

We change our attitudes, we change our lives

Defying the odds in a male dominated political landscape

The world has enough for everyones needs, not greed

Breaking the chains of injustices to liberate women

Waving goodbye to womens stunted contribution in politics

Borrowing leadership tips from women in corporate world

AMWIK EDITORIAL TEAM

Young, ambitious, determined aspirant aiming for the stars

Ambition & determination

Photo courtesy of Photo House

Walking in the footsteps of my father

Flying high the flag of leadership in Kenyas maginalised communities

Womens rights defender with a passion for change

Womens rights defender

Lilian Mwaura with her adorable grandchildren.

Zambian womans indomitable fight against patriarchy supremacy in politics

fighting patriarchy in politics

Walking in the footsteps of my father

CMD-Kenya and Heinrich Bll hold affirmative forums T

affirmative action forums for women aspirants

Flying high the flag of leadership

Fatima Salim Nchizumo is a councillor from Kwale. (ward representative)

-Profiles of women asPirants-

Womens rich diversity to spice

rich diversity adding spice to politics

-Profiles of women asPirants-

up the political landscape

rich diversity adding spice to politics

Turkana woman breaks the glass of gender discrimination and

breaking glass ceiling of gender discrimination

Joyce Akai Emanikor

Womens rights defender with a passion for change

womens rights defender

CMD-Kenya, Heinrich Bll action foru

CMD-Kenya, Heinrich Bll action forums

Young, ambitious, determined aspirant aiming for the stars

Photo courtesy of Photo House

The numbers are adding up to keep women in the lead

Hellen Njue makes her contribution at the forum.

adding up the winning numbers

The numbers are adding up to keep women in the lead

We change our attitudes, we change our lives

change attitudes and lives

training on effective use of media

Media a powerful partner AMWIK

training on effective use of media

KEEN:Journalist Ngombao Kitwi addresses Eastern province women aspirants

training on effective use of media

If we adapt a positive attitude, we change perception of life

change attitudes and lives

Margaret gitaris vision for Maara

defying odds in male dominated landscape

Defying the odds in a male dominated political landscape