KISUMU, Kenya — Gender stakeholders in Kisumu County have raised concerns over rising incidents of political violence, gender-based violence and social challenges that could undermine inclusive participation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The concerns emerged during the Kisumu County Gender Sector Partners Consultative Meeting, convened by the County Gender Sector Working Group (GSWG) with support from SHOFCO. The forum brought together representatives from government agencies, civil society organisations and development partners to review progress on gender equality and social inclusion initiatives.
The meeting also officially welcomed the new County Commissioner as Chairperson of the County Gender Sector Working Group ahead of preparations for the International Day of the Girl Child, marked annually on October 11.
Concern over political violence
Participants expressed concern over reported cases of political violence and electoral-related sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), warning that such incidents could discourage women, youth, persons with disabilities and other marginalised groups from participating in political and civic processes.
Stakeholders said an environment free from intimidation is essential to guarantee meaningful public participation during the election period.
The County Commissioner assured participants that security agencies were strengthening measures to maintain peace and ensure all residents can participate in public affairs without fear.
Women still underrepresented
The meeting also highlighted persistent gender disparities in political leadership despite years of advocacy for greater representation.
Participants observed that relatively few women successfully contest elective positions such as Member of Parliament and Governor, with many continuing to access leadership through nomination rather than direct election.
They called for sustained interventions to remove barriers limiting women’s political participation and leadership opportunities.
Social challenges
Stakeholders also reviewed implementation of the National Male Engagement and Inclusion Strategy (2025–2030), which seeks to increase the involvement of men and boys in promoting gender equality, preventing gender-based violence and supporting reproductive health programmes.
Participants agreed that changing harmful social norms and encouraging greater male participation remain critical to achieving lasting gender equality.
The meeting further examined the link between gender equality and climate action, calling for increased participation of women, youth, persons with disabilities and other marginalised groups in the blue economy and green energy sectors.
However, participants identified weak enforcement of climate policies, inadequate technical capacity and limited funding as key obstacles to inclusive climate programmes.
Calls for stronger partnerships
The forum also raised concern over rising teenage pregnancies, increasing school dropout rates and drug and substance abuse among adolescents, particularly marijuana use.
Participants said the challenges continue to undermine educational attainment, especially for girls, while increasing vulnerability among young people.
The stakeholders committed to adopting more inclusive programmes that engage women, girls, boys and men in advancing gender equality and social inclusion.
They also pledged to strengthen partnerships, mobilise resources and enhance collaboration among government agencies, civil society organisations and development partners to improve programme implementation across Kisumu County.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to coordinated action aimed at advancing gender equality, protecting vulnerable groups and promoting inclusive development as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.