Isiolo, Kenya| In a bold and transformative push for inclusive gender advocacy, the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), under the leadership of Chairperson Rehema Jaldesa, has launched a comprehensive three-day working tour in Isiolo County.
The initiative marks a pivotal shift in Kenya’s gender equality agenda, expanding beyond traditional frameworks to include marginalized demographics such as the boychild and middle-aged men—groups often overlooked in mainstream gender discourse.
A New Era of Inclusive Gender Advocacy
Speaking at a public engagement forum, Jaldesa underscored NGEC’s commitment to ensuring that gender equality interventions are holistic and inclusive.
She emphasized that the exclusion of boys and men from gender conversations has had detrimental societal effects, contributing to rising school dropout rates, mental health crises, and substance abuse among males.
“For a long time, the boychild and middle-aged men have been neglected, but that is changing,” declared Jaldesa. “We have a clear, actionable plan to support them as part of our broader gender equality agenda. True equality cannot be achieved if half of the population is left behind.”
The Commission’s progressive stance was met with widespread approval from local leaders and residents.
Isiolo Deputy Governor James Lowasa commended NGEC’s renewed focus, noting that addressing the challenges faced by men and boys is critical for sustainable community development.
Strengthening County-Level Gender Reforms
Jaldesa also lauded the Isiolo County Government for its strides in gender-responsive governance, particularly in enacting legislation to combat gender-based violence (GBV).
She highlighted the importance of intergovernmental collaboration in advancing gender equality, stating that county-level initiatives are instrumental in translating national policies into tangible change.
To further enhance service delivery in northern Kenya, Jaldesa announced the establishment of a regional NGEC office in Isiolo.
This office will serve as a central hub for residents to report gender-related violations, seek legal redress, and access psychosocial support.
Additionally, plans are underway for the construction of a government-funded rescue center dedicated to GBV survivors.
The facility will provide emergency shelter, medical care, counseling, and legal aid—a critical intervention in a region where GBV remains a pervasive challenge.
Empowering Women in Leadership and Ending Harmful Practices
During her visit to Kina Ward, Jaldesa shifted focus to women’s political participation, urging Isiolo women to actively pursue leadership roles to meet Kenya’s constitutional two-thirds gender rule.
“Women must step forward and take up leadership positions—not just for representation, but to influence policies that affect their lives,” she asserted. “Equality begins when women have a seat at the decision-making table.”
She also issued a stern warning against female genital mutilation (FGM), labeling it a violation of human rights that perpetuates gender inequality.
Despite being outlawed in Kenya, FGM persists in some communities under the guise of tradition. Jaldesa called on women to reject the practice and protect girls from its physical and psychological harm.
Public Participation and Youth Empowerment
As part of NGEC’s fact-finding mission, Commissioner Bithuka Nzomo engaged with local youth, gathering insights on challenges such as unemployment and limited access to education.
He affirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting youth empowerment programs, emphasizing that young people are key drivers of social and economic transformation.
The three-day tour culminated in a pledge to integrate public feedback into NGEC’s forthcoming national report on gender equality—a document expected to shape future policy interventions.
A Unified Call for Equality
Rehema Jaldesa’s leadership in Isiolo underscores a fundamental truth: gender equality is not a zero-sum game.
By advocating for the rights of women and girls while simultaneously addressing the struggles of boys and men, NGEC is fostering a more balanced and equitable society.
As the Commission continues its nationwide engagements, its message remains resolute: gender equality is a collective responsibility, and no one should be left behind in the pursuit of a fairer Kenya.