Kihika Champions Women Leadership As County Invests Sh100 Million In Empowerment

By Suleiman Mbatiah

Women have been urged to contest elective positions and assume leadership roles to advance gender equality locally and nationally, amid renewed focus on implementing the constitutional two-thirds gender rule.

Susan Kihika said the push is also aimed at expanding women’s representation at the decision making table and accelerating socio economic gains for families and communities across the county.

She spoke while hosting hundreds of women leaders drawn from all sub counties, forming a grassroots network focused on economic empowerment and increasing women’s participation in governance structures.

The forum brought together county executives, chief officers and women members of the county assembly, who outlined ongoing programs designed to uplift women and support the girl child.

“As a woman leader, women remain the backbone of my leadership, my support base and first line of defenders,” Kihika said, emphasizing the role of women in shaping policy and development priorities.

She also announced plans for a major women empowerment fundraiser aimed at scaling up financial support and expanding opportunities for enterprise and leadership development across Nakuru County.

The governor called for respect toward women leaders and stressed the need for integrity in public service, noting that ethical leadership is key to sustaining trust and inclusive growth.

“I remain committed to strengthening women-led initiatives, fostering cohesion, and expanding opportunities for women to actively shape Nakuru’s social and economic progress, both now and for future generations,” she added.

The renewed call comes as counties increasingly prioritize gender inclusion policies, with local governments seen as critical entry points for women seeking elective office and leadership experience.

The Governor took the opportunity to highlight key initiatives such as investments in borehole drilling to improve access to water, expansion of bursary programs, and rollout of a countywide school feeding initiative in early childhood centers.

Her administration has also establishment of lactation rooms in major hospitals, while newly constructed markets now include breastfeeding spaces to support women traders and working mothers.

Through the Sh100 million Wezesha Fund, women have accessed low interest credit to grow businesses, alongside increased inclusion in leadership roles within county structures and community organizations.