The Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) has called for stronger collaboration with political institutions to advance women’s participation in political party structures, citing persistent gaps in gender representation despite existing legal frameworks.
AMWIK made the call during a courtesy visit to the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) today 2 February 2026 where a delegation led by Executive Director Queenter Mbori met Registrar of Political Parties John Cox Lorionokou to discuss pathways for enhancing gender inclusivity in Kenya’s political landscape.
At the centre of the engagement was the need to translate policy commitments on gender equality into practical action within political agenda which remain key gatekeepers to elective and appointive positions.
The meeting comes following the backdrop of Kenya’s continued struggle to fully implement the constitutional two-thirds gender rule, more than a decade after its promulgation.
Ms Mbori presented key recommendations from a recent report on the two-thirds gender rule, developed by AMWIK in partnership with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNF).
The report highlights structural, cultural and institutional barriers that continue to limit women’s access to leadership positions within political parties.
The delegation underscored the influential role of the ORPP in regulating political parties and ensuring compliance with constitutional principles, including gender equality.
They noted that political parties serve as the primary entry point into politics and as such, reforms within party structures are critical to achieving meaningful representation of women at national and county levels.
Discussions also focused on the need for sustained engagement rather than ad hoc interventions, with both parties exploring the possibility of a long-term strategic partnership.
AMWIK emphasized that it aim at keeping gender inclusivity firmly on the national political agenda while supporting political parties to adopt and implement gender-responsive policies.
Mr Lorionokou welcomed the dialogue, acknowledging the importance of partnerships with civil society organisations in strengthening democratic governance.
He reaffirmed the ORPP’s mandate to promote compliance with the Constitution and encouraged continued engagement to address systemic challenges facing women in politics.
The meeting highlighted the growing recognition that legal provisions alone are insufficient without deliberate enforcement mechanisms and political goodwill.
Stakeholders agreed that capacity building, monitoring and accountability within party structures are essential to closing the gender gap.
AMWIK has consistently advocated for media, policy and institutional reforms that amplify women’s voices in public life.
At the same time the organisation has positioned itself as a key player in advancing gender equality in governance
Edited by John Majau
