CLOSING GAPS IN MARRIAGE AND FAMILY LAWS

The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has reiterated its commitment to advancing gender equality and protecting women’s rights by joining hands with the Kenya Law Reform Commission, UN Women and the International Development Law Organization (IDLO) in reviewing the Post Enactment Evaluation Report on Marriage and Family Laws.

The discussions underscored the urgent need to address persistent gaps within the Marriage Act and the Matrimonial Property Act, which continue to expose women to inequality, vulnerability and harm. These legal shortcomings not only undermine justice but also limit women’s ability to fully enjoy the protections and freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution.

KEWOPA members emphasized that meaningful reforms must go hand in hand with strong civic education to empower women with knowledge of the law and the confidence to claim their rights. Without awareness, many women remain excluded from the protections the law intends to offer.

As KEWOPA members affirmed during the meeting, the law must protect women not only in writing but also in practice.

By pledging to support urgent legislative reforms and public sensitization, KEWOPA continues to champion a legal environment that upholds dignity, equality and justice in marriage and family life, which are core pillars for building inclusive communities and a stronger democracy.