NAIROBI, Kenya – The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has intensified efforts to promote women’s political participation ahead of the 2027 General Election through engagements with community leaders in pastoralist regions.
The Commission said traditional governance structures continue to play a significant role in shaping political leadership and public decision-making in many pastoralist communities, making inclusive dialogue essential to advancing constitutional principles of equality and representation.
The initiative is being implemented in partnership with the Horn of Africa Institute and supported by Urgent Action Fund–Africa.
According to NGEC, the programme seeks to strengthen women’s participation in political leadership while safeguarding their constitutional right to engage in governance and public affairs.
As part of the initiative, Commission officials paid courtesy visits to Assistant County Commissioner Stephen Muye and the Borana Council of Elders to promote dialogue on expanding women’s inclusion in community decision-making processes.
The discussions recognised the influence of both cultural and administrative leadership in shaping governance within communities and explored ways of ensuring women are meaningfully represented in decisions affecting their lives.
NGEC noted that the engagements come as traditional leadership structures continue to influence political processes across northern Kenya.
The Commission said promoting women’s participation in leadership is not intended to replace cultural traditions but to encourage governance systems that align with the Constitution and support equal opportunities for all citizens.
“Promoting women’s participation in leadership is not about replacing tradition; it is about ensuring that tradition evolves alongside the Constitution to unlock the full potential of every Kenyan,” the Commission said.
NGEC added that strengthening dialogue with community leaders is part of broader efforts to advance equality, eliminate discrimination and create more opportunities for Special Interest Groups to participate in governance.
The Commission expressed confidence that expanding inclusive decision-making would strengthen democracy, build more resilient communities and contribute to sustainable development as Kenya prepares for the 2027 General Election.