The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has encouraged more women to venture into leadership by vying for elective seats.

Speaking in Meru during a training on how women can be empowered to join politics, the KEWOPA leadership said various barriers have been standing on their way.

They cited cultural differences, male chauvinism, lack of economic resources, lack of civil awareness, Gender Based Violence, lack of mentors, family issues,  lack of political party support among others as the main barriers facing women in politics.

The Meru Woman representative Karambu Kailemia who organised the training in collaboration with KEWOPA pleaded with men in to back women interested in political office.

Kailemia said she was impressed to be elected but disappointed because no woman was elected to represent a constituency while only one woman is elected as MCA in Meru.

“We must end stereotypes that a married woman cannot be in leadership and handle family responsibilities. Let us build capacity for our girls and women to go for seats. Women are multitaskers and these skills make us very good leaders,” Kailemia said.

Kajuju Ndumba, from Kenya Women Parliamentary Association, encouraged women to vie for any elective seat.

“Go for those positions. Campaign and woo people to vote for you so that we see more women of integrity in leadership,” Ndumba said.

Purity Mutuku, a consultant at KEWOPA challenged women to forsake culture that hinders them from seeking elective positions.

“We are here to champion women leadership because they can also be good leaders. I encourage many more women to further their studies and gain skills that build confidence and resilience in them. As much as it is a bit tough vying against men, we can change this World,” she said.

Kailemia criticised the criminal acts of femicide and GBV happening in the country.

“It is time we rise up and fight against abuse of children by their relatives, early marriage and teen pregnancy perpetuated by even elderly men. Let’s empower fellow women for them to take leadership roles,” she said.

Kailemia said she anticipates more than ten ladies will clinch political seats in Meru in 2027.

In Kenya there are seven out of 47 governors, 28 women MPs compared to 262 male MPs, and 115 women MCAs compared to 1335 men MCAs.

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