Mombasa, Kenya| The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) marked this year’s International Women’s Day with a strong commitment to championing women’s rights and workplace equality.
In a gesture of support for vulnerable women, KPA’s female employees donated postpartum care products to new mothers and survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) at the Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital (CGTRH).
The celebration was in alignment with the 2024 International Women’s Day theme: “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment”, a message that deeply resonated with the KPA team.
KPA’s Commitment to Women’s Welfare
Dressed in elegant blue knee-length dresses, the tight-knit team of women from KPA radiated warmth and joy as they interacted with mothers and GBV survivors at the maternity wing of CGTRH.
Their donation, made possible through contributions from KPA women employees and with the support of KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto, underscored the organization’s commitment to social responsibility.
Catherine Wangari, KPA’s Administration Manager, highlighted that the donation was part of the Authority’s ongoing corporate social investment program, aimed at supporting vulnerable women and strengthening ties with CGTRH, the largest referral hospital in the coastal region.
“They have given us the time, energy, and space to do this. On behalf of KPA, we are giving this donation to the maternity wing and the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) ward victims,” Wangari stated.
She emphasized that KPA is dedicated to ensuring gender equality and workplace equity, citing that the Authority employs 1,376 women across various professional cadres, working alongside their male counterparts to improve port efficiency.
Women in Leadership and STEM: Breaking Barriers at KPA
Beyond its charitable contributions, KPA has actively invested in programs that promote gender equality in the workplace. Wangari reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to empowering women, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers, fields historically dominated by men.
“As you all know, KPA is a labor-intensive industry, and we take pride in having various STEM programs,” she said.
She further celebrated the organization’s pioneering women, stating:
“Women have often been left behind in science, technology, and mathematics, but we are proud to be among the few organizations that have a pioneer female Marine Pilot for Kenya. We also have female engineers excelling in male-dominated professions.”
She added that KPA has implemented a robust program to combat GBV and support the career advancement of women to senior leadership positions, ensuring they have equal opportunities to thrive.
Impact on New Mothers and GBV Survivors
The initiative was warmly received by CGTRH staff and beneficiaries. Salome Rajab, Director of Nursing at CGTRH, praised KPA’s generosity, stating that the donation would bring relief and joy to many mothers facing social and financial hardships.
“Your presence and these gifts will uplift their spirits. Many of these mothers face challenges such as delayed discharge and family difficulties. We welcome this support not just for today, but as an ongoing effort,” Rajab noted.
Nancy Atieno, a new mother who gave birth prematurely, shared her personal struggles with depression and the challenges of preterm delivery.
She urged KPA to consider expanding its support through regular hospital visits and counseling services to provide emotional and psychological assistance to mothers facing similar difficulties.
A Lasting Commitment to Gender Equality
While International Women’s Day provided a moment to celebrate progress, KPA’s efforts go beyond a single-day event.
The Authority remains committed to fostering gender inclusivity, supporting women’s career growth, and uplifting vulnerable members of the community.
Through initiatives like this, KPA is setting a precedent for corporate social responsibility, workplace equality, and women’s empowerment—a move that will leave a lasting impact on both its workforce and the larger community.
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