KEWOPA ADVANCES INCLUSIVE GOVERNANCE THROUGH KISUMU COMMUNITY DIALOGUE

“Women belong in all spaces where decisions are being made.” – Ruth Bader Ginsburg

KEWOPA held a Community Dialogue and Civic Engagement Forum on Women & Leadership in Kisumu County. The forum brought together women, youth, and community representatives to reflect on progress, challenges, and opportunities for inclusive governance.

Discussions focused on rising cases of gender-based violence, femicide, and political violence, which continue to silence women leaders and discourage participation. Participants stressed the need for safe spaces that enable women and youth to engage in decision-making without fear. They also emphasized public participation and civic engagement as essential to strengthening democracy and expanding representation.

Through group activities and discussions, participants proposed ways to dismantle barriers to women’s leadership and support future generations of leaders. Hon. Rozaah Buyu urged women and youth to step forward, vie for leadership positions, and nurture leadership across generations.

The forum reaffirmed KEWOPA’s commitment to a Kenya where women’s voices are heard, protected, and included in all decision-making spaces.

By convening such forums across counties, KEWOPA continues to amplify community voices and ensure that women and youth are not only part of the conversation but also central to shaping Kenya’s democratic future.