The President’s Advisor on Women Rights Hon. Chiggai Harriette joined the Attorney General of Kenya Hon. Dorcas Oduor SC, OGW, EBS, among other partners and stakeholders, for the launch of the East Africa Breweries Ltd Sustainability Report 2024 themed “Championing Inclusion and Diversity”.
The report is a call to action and a reminder that true progress towards sustainability requires the prioritization of every person’s rights and dignity, irrespective of their gender, age, physical ability, background, identity, or geographical location.
Kenya’s commitment to equality and inclusion is enshrined in our Constitution, legal frameworks, and policies, which outline mandates for promoting diversity and addressing systemic barriers.
However, achieving meaningful progress requires us to go beyond gender and tackle intersecting forms of discrimination and marginalization. For instance, women’s limited control over resources, including land and the burden of unpaid care work further hinder their economic participation and mobility.
Speaking during a panel discussion titled “Advancing Gender Equality and Economic Empowerment in East Africa – Challenges, Opportunities and Policy Interventions” the President’s Advisor said understanding Kenya’s historical context, including its diversity and experiences of marginalization, is crucial for effective inclusion and diversity initiatives.
She said a lot can be achieved through addressing gender-based discrimination and promoting women’s empowerment; ensuring that people with disabilities have equal opportunities and access to services; and addressing ethnic and racial discrimination and promoting social cohesion.
Hon. Chiggai also called for close collaboration between the Government and Private Sector through development of Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) frameworks that explicitly incorporate gender equality goals, provide technical assistance to private entities on gender-responsive practices, and ensure transparency and accountability in all PPP initiatives.
Championing inclusion and diversity is essential for Kenya’s progress and development. By addressing historical inequalities, challenging stereotypes, and implementing effective strategies, Kenya can create a more equitable and inclusive society for all.