Leaders launch initiative to raise number of female governors in 2027

Five women governors and a section of legislators from Homa Bay County have vowed to push to have 16 women elected governor in the 2027 General Election.

Under the umbrella G7, the women governors said this will ensure the two third gender rule enshrined in the Constitution is realised.

Speaking during a G7 pre-launch at the Homa Bay Governor’s Park, the leaders said the target is achievable.

The governors who were hosted by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, included the Council of Governors chairperson Anne Waiguru (Kirinyaga), Susan Kihika (Nakuru) Wavinya Ndeti of Machakos and Cecilly Mbarire of Embu.

MPs Millie Odhiambo from Suba North, her Rangwe counterpart Lilian Gogo and Eve Obara of Kabondo Kasipul also backed the initiative.

In a resolution read by Kihika, the leaders noted that there is need to increase the number and capacity of political influence of women leaders to ensure greater representation.

They noted that female elected leaders should actively support women counterparts aspiring political posts and provide support once they achieve political positions.

They also pointed out that they must deliver the devolution promises through transformational development to assure voters that they are too able to make a change in their lives just like their male counterparts.

The leaders resolved to identify young women aspirants and mentor them into leadership positions to enable even the young ones rise politically.

They agreed to lobby political parties to nominate more women to run for elective positions.
The governors said there is a need to address formal and informal huddles that hinder participation of women in decision-making offices.

They also called on the women leaders to be the champions of good governance and accountability and financial stewardship.