CIOC Committee engages NGEC on gender equity challenges

CIOC Committee engages NGEC on gender equity challenges

𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒,
𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬.

The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) Chair, Dr. Joyce Mwikali has today highlighted the commission's hitches in the implementation of key programmes. 

Dr. Mwikali noted that the commission face difficulties including limited human resources, inadequate funding, and capacity constraints.

While meeting the Constitutional Implementation and Oversight Committee (CIOC) convened today under the leadership of Hon. Gathoni Wamuchomba (Githunguri), NGEC discussed the implementation of their Constitutional Mandate and the obstacles hindering the realization of the two-thirds gender rule.

Legislators urged NGEC to forge partnerships with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to advocate for gender mainstreaming and address issues such as Gender-Based Violence (GBV) facing the country.
Further, Members elaborated that it was critical to consider providing legal assistance to victims of GBV as they dealt with the issues at hand. 

"Consider the need to represent voiceless Kenyans and collaborate with NGOs aligned with your objectives," stated Hon. Wamuchomba.

Furthermore, Members highlighted the misconception that gender issues solely concern women, emphasizing the inclusion of men in gender-related discussions. They suggested that the two-thirds gender rule may eventually require "topping up" male representation.

The Committee urged NGEC to develop policies and frameworks promoting gender mainstreaming across all sectors and reaffirming the commission's mandate.

Hon. Wamuchomba raised concerns about the declining operations of gender desks at police posts, leaving the public vulnerable. She stressed the importance of gender sensitivity, highlighting cases where men faced discrimination, in reporting GBV against them.

"It's crucial to address these challenges," emphasized Hon. Wamuchomba, "as gender issues affect both men and women."

The engagement between CIOC and NGEC underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to address gender equity challenges and advance inclusive policies in Kenya.