Lodwar- March 8, 2025 (Public Communications and Media Relations)
Turkana’s First Lady, H.E. Lilian Ekamais led the county in commemorating International Women’s Day today in Lodwar.
This event included a two-day roundtable conference that began yesterday, where pertinent issues regarding women were discussed. This event was attended by women leaders, community groups, and stakeholders from across the county.
The First Lady reiterated that the rights of women as equal citizens are often ignored in discussions, giving rise to pro-natalist policies and narratives putting pressure on women to have more children.
Her Excellency noted that limiting the rights and opportunities of women will not help address them. “We need to promote policies that support gender equality in employment and economic participation as a step to empowering women,” she added.
The County Executive Committee Member(CECM) for Trade, Cooperative Youth and Gender Affairs Roseline Aite called for multi-faceted efforts that propel civic engagement to address issues of patriarchy aiming to protect gender values.
CECM Aite emphasized the importance of making a change in community attributes for women encompassing both political and non-political actions. “We should highlight the need to advance gender equality by listening to the voices of women and girls and take concrete action,” she added.
The Director Echami A Ito Association, Pauline Lokuruka, lauded the county government and partners for hosting an event celebrating women’s achievements while recognizing needed action for inclusive leadership, which will bridge existing gaps on equitable governance.
The Chief Officer for Gender and Youth Affairs, Joseph Epuu, highlighted the importance of actively seeking women out and improving their status in society through education, equality, and improved livelihood towards building an inclusive community
The Director Legal Services, Ekai Nabenyo described the legal aspect of gender disparities, emphasizing the legal acceptance of gender identity, laws against domestic abuse, and workplace rights and protections as important areas that affect women’s rights and gender equality.
Resolutions and plans of action will be developed from the discussions to guide engagement and implementation.
Senior county government officials attended the event, including Chief Officer for Trade and Cooperatives Pauline Tangarae, CountyAttorney Ruth Emanikor, directors Linus Ekidor (Youth Affairs), and Mollen Onderi (Gender Affairs).
