It was pomp and color. Purple dominated the event signifying the royal position women occupy in the
world. This was the launch of the G7 strategy for Women Governors which took place at the Safari Park
Hotel, Nairobi.
The event was graced by H.E William Ruto, the President of the Republic of Kenya among many other
Kenyan leaders.
The G7 group brings together the seven elected Women Governors including the current Chair of the
Council of Governors, H. E Anne Waiguru who is also the Governor of Kirinyaga County, Governor
Machakos County, H.E Wavinya Ndeti, Governor Meru County Kawira Mwangaza, Nakuru Governor
Susan Kihika, Governor Kwale Fatuma Achani, Governor Embu County Cecily Mbarire, and Homabay
County Governor Gladys Wanga.
The G7 strategy seeks to empower and support women leaders within the devolved structures. Their
objective is to strengthen women’s leadership and demonstrate efficient, transformational, and strategic governance. This will be achieved through the inclusion of more women in leadership positions. The main goal is to have more women elected to positions of power in the next general elections in 2027 with a representation of 16 female Governors up from the current seven.
To deliver this ambition, the women committed to devout their efforts in mentoring aspiring female
political leaders and equipping them to maneuver the political waters which can be murky.
Speaking during the event, H.E Governor Wavinya Ndeti pointed out that women need the support of
their respective political parties for them to rise to positions of political leadership.
“Political parties should assist women to get into politics and once they are there, they should be
entrusted with leadership positions to grow politically”, said Wavinya. She also lauded Wiper, ODM and
UDA parties for leading from the front in matters of women’s leadership.
President Ruto reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the Two-Thirds Gender Rule is actualized in
parliament and other platforms of political representation.
The launch comes a day to the 2024 International Women’s Day celebrations.
