CHAMPIONING GENDER EQUALITY IN PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEES: VOICES FROM THE FRONTLINES

KEWOPA hosted a forum that brought together legislators to reflect on gender equality within parliamentary committees, highlighting both progress and gaps. There was a concern over the limited representation of women in committee leadership and the need for inclusive decision-making processes that reflect the diversity of Kenyan society.

The discussion opened with a focus on the importance of public engagement in parliamentary work. It was noted that public participation, especially in budget processes, has become more deliberate and meaningful, allowing citizens’ voices to be considered in shaping national priorities.

However, gender inequality in committee appointments and leadership remains a major concern. Hon. Edith Nyenze spoke candidly about the structural bias that continues to affect women’s advancement within Parliament. She pointed out that women are often overlooked for influential positions, with appointments leaning toward placing them in less powerful committees. This undermines their ability to influence key national decisions and contributes to the ongoing marginalization of women in politics.

“It’s not just about being in the room, it’s about being given the mandate to lead,” Hon. Nyenze said. “Women must be appointed to key positions where decisions are made.”

Speakers advocated for the appointment of more women to leadership positions in Parliament, especially in committees that address social issues such as mental health and reproductive health. To support this, members proposed stronger partnerships with institutions like the Auditor General and civil society to track gender equity outcomes in public finance and ensure the development of gender-sensitive budgets.

Another critical issue raised was the growing threat of online harassment targeting women leaders. Concerns were voiced about the rise in GPS tracking, fake news, and AI-generated content used to discredit women in public life. They called for the development of legal frameworks to address these digital threats and protect women’s rights in the evolving social media landscape.

Hon. Nzioka Kivasu strongly condemned the digital harassment targeting women in leadership, calling for urgent legislative attention and a cultural shift in online spaces.

“We must draw a line between freedom of expression and targeted abuse,” said Hon. Kivasu. “No woman leader should be silenced or shamed for stepping into public service.”

The forum concluded with a shared commitment to advancing gender equality in parliamentary work. While acknowledging the progress made, members reaffirmed the need for deliberate action to create space for women in leadership and ensure that parliamentary structures truly reflect the voices and needs of all Kenyans.