The final draft of the Uasin Gishu Gender and Community Development Policy is ready and will soon be presented before the Cabinet.
Work on the policy began in 2024, spearheaded by the Department of Gender, Culture, and Social Protection in partnership with the Uasin Gishu County Civil Network and other stakeholders.
According to the County Executive Committee Member for Gender, Eng. Lucy Ng’endo, the completion of the draft is a major milestone for the county.
“We have always relied on the National Gender Policy, but this one is now domiciled in Uasin Gishu,” she said during a meeting to review the final draft.
What does Uasin Gishu Gender Policy entail?
The CECM explained that the policy addresses women’s empowerment, peacebuilding, economic growth, and relevant mitigation measures, while also highlighting the importance of involving men in gender matters to achieve sustainable solutions.
Chief Officer for Gender, Marion Birgen, noted that the policy provides a strategic framework to address inequalities, promote inclusion, and drive community development across sectors.
“This framework integrates gender considerations into all aspects of planning and implementation, while guiding stakeholders through legislative and administrative measures for equitable development,” she said.
Uasin Gishu County Assembly Gender and Social Protection Chairperson, and MCA for Moi’s Bridge, Patrick Kimeli, expressed gratitude to those involved in the drafting process and pledged support to ensure its approval. He emphasised the need for budget allocations to facilitate implementation and promised follow-ups to create public awareness of the policy.
In addition, Reprodrive Program Manager Ian Kigen, a key partner in the process, affirmed their commitment to support implementation.
“This policy covers emerging issues we face today, and we hope it marks the beginning of effective mitigation,” he said.
