Women’s participation in decision-making processes ensures that policies reflect diverse perspectives, Uasin Gishu first lady Madam Salina Bii Chelilim has said.

In a speech read by County Executive Committee Member for Education, Vocational Training, Gender, Social protection and Culture, Elijah Kosgei, during the 50th celebrations of International Women’s International day held at Ainabtich ward office, the County First lady Selina Bii said “Through education, lets ensure that every girl has access to quality education, paving way for leadership in various sectors of economy.”

This year’s theme for the celebrations was “dedicated by United Nations for International Women’s Day.”Accelerate Action for Gender Equality.

“We acknowledge strides made in advancing women’s rights; however, much more is yet to be done to attain gender parity, thus acceleration of action is indeed a clarion call,” the county first lady said.

“As we call for action, the time is now, that each one of us has a role to play,” she added.

In addition, Madam Bii encouraged all the women to take advantage of the many programs being undertaken in the county for the purpose of their empowerment. She said they are meant to finance investments that accelerate progress and achieve gender equality.

“Through cooperatives, for instance, we are supporting women entrepreneurs and providing Vocational training where we equip learners with job market-required skills that bolster economic independence,” she said.

Chief Officer for Education and Vocational Training, who is also acting for Gender, Eunice Suter, on her part, said this year’s theme underscores the urgency of breaking down barriers and eliminating deeply ingrained gender biases.

“While strides have been made, true gender equality remains a work in progress,” the chief officer said.

“It calls for action to break down the barrier, closing gaps, accelerating actions, challenging stereotypes and create environment where all women are valued and respected,” she added.

Deputy Speaker Sarah Malel rallied women to go for the elective political seats in the coming General Election.

“We have the numbers. We are galvanised, and we call upon women to rise and lead the country. We need to actualise the reality that we can have equal representation of women in governance,” she said.

On her part, the Chairperson for Uasin Gishu Civil Society Network, Benedine Kipruto, acknowledge the collaboration between the lobby group and County Government of Uasin Gishu, saying, “by working together, we can accelerate action for gender equality in the county and building more equitable and inclusive society for generation to come”.

“We must all champion women’s rights. We must confront the backlash. We must enhance our efforts to dismantle systemic inequalities. Together, we can all push forward, “says Joywin Sang, Director Gender.

Joywin also appreciated the County Civil Society Network and other stakeholders based in Uasin Gishu for the work they are doing in championing for action towards equality.

Present were County Assembly members committee on Gender, led by its chair Hon. Patrick Kimeli, and members, Hon. Pamela Ngetich, Hon.Jewel Kogo, Hon. Rebeca Jerop and Hon. Naomi Serem. Chairperson Gender Uasin Gishu Civil Society Network Collins Kemboi

Also present were Deputy Directors Gender Wainaina Kimingi, Betsy Chepkemboi, and Penina Katam (Social Protection).

The International Women’s International Day celebration in Uasin Gishu was also marked by a 10Km fun cycling drive.