On the 8th of March 2024, KELIN joined Kilifi County in marking the International Women’s Day 2024 in Chwonyi, Mwarakaya Ward. The event convened over 500 local residents of Kilifi County, all eager to celebrate under the theme “Investing in Women: Accelerating Progress.” It commenced with a procession march led by the local area women and the present Kilifi female leaders, followed by a fashion show showcasing messages of inclusion and diversity conveyed by the young girls and women of Kilifi County.
The festivities were graced by the presence of notable figures including Susanne Mungaro (First Lady of Kilifi), Flora Mbetsa Chibule (Deputy Governor of Kilifi County), Hon. Yaye Shosi Ahmed (CECM – Public Service, Special Programs, and Disaster Management), Hon. Ruth Dama Masha (CECM – Gender, Culture, Youth Affairs, Sports, and Social Services), Hon. Clara Ningome Chonga (CECM – Tourism, Trade, and Cooperative Development), and Hon. Martha Koki Musyoki (Elected Member of Kilifi County Assembly, Mariakani Ward).
The First Lady of Kilifi emphasized that women possess rights equal to those of any other individual, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat violence against women with the aim of eradicating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Kilifi County. She stressed their commitment to collaborating with women and persisting in the fight to secure a better life for the women of Kilifi. Furthermore, she encouraged women to utilize technology to amplify their voices and draw attention to issues affecting them.
Further, the Deputy Governor acknowledged the existence of the Wezesha Fund in Kilifi County, which assists women in enhancing their quality of life. She also observed that while it is a component of the County’s development plan to decrease the incidence of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Kilifi, the County still registers high rates compared to other counties.
KELIN took advantage of the opportunity to exhibit and distribute Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials showcasing our continued efforts to promote and safeguard health-related human rights for all. Many attendees visited our exhibition booth, eager to learn about our activities and advocacy work in Kilifi and across Kenya. KELIN remains strongly committed to advancing women rights and promoting gender equality.
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For more information, please contact.
Trevor Mwangi
Program Associate
Kenya Legal and Ethical Issues Network on HIV & AIDS (KELIN)
Kuwinda Lane, Karen C, off Langáta Road Email: trevormwangi@kelinkenya.org
