On International Women’s Day 2025, ActionAid Kenya proudly stood in solidarity with women and girls across Kenya and around the world, commemorating the day with impactful events in Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kilifi, Taita Taveta, Embu, and Makueni. Partnering with local governments, communities, and stakeholders, ActionAid Kenya reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to advancing women’s rights, promoting gender equality, and empowering women to realize their full potential.
The theme for this year, “Accelerating Impact for All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment,” served as a powerful reminder of the remarkable progress women have made, despite the significant challenges they continue to face. It also underscored the urgent need for further action to fully realize this progress. From political leadership and economic independence to education and gender justice, women are breaking boundaries and shattering barriers. For over 52 years, ActionAid Kenya has been at the forefront of this movement, championing the rights of women and girls.
A key pillar of ActionAid Kenya’s work is empowering women to take leadership roles at all levels of society. Through various programs, we support women in accessing leadership opportunities and advocate for their rights at the local, county, and national levels. During the national celebrations in Homa Bay, we were honored to be joined by prominent leaders, including the First Lady of Kenya, H.E. Mama Rachel Ruto, H.E. Ida Odinga, and H.E. Gladys Wanga, Governor of Homa Bay. Their presence underscored the critical importance of women in leadership and their invaluable contributions to society.
To mark International Women’s Day, Susan Otieno, the Executive Director of ActionAid Kenya, emphasized,
“Empowering women is key to building stronger communities. Over the 52 years that ActionAid has been in Kenya, we have witnessed women rise as leaders and economic drivers. Let’s keep accelerating action to ensure no woman is left behind.”
Despite the progress, gender-based violence remains a significant challenge for women and girls in Kenya. ActionAid Kenya is resolutely committed to combating harmful gender-based practices and advocating for robust legal frameworks that protect women and girls from violence and discrimination. Our advocacy efforts, alongside community engagement, aim to ensure that laws are not only enacted but also enforced to safeguard women’s rights.
ActionAid Kenya’s commitment to advancing the rights of women and girls is part of a larger global movement that seeks to ensure no woman is left behind in development. From local initiatives to international platforms, we continue to advocate for gender equality, women’s leadership, education for girls, and the economic empowerment of women.
As Susan Otieno noted,
“We continue to celebrate the women of Kenya, but our work is far from over. Together with our partners, we will continue to fight for a world where every woman can dream, lead, and live free from fear.”
Looking ahead, the work of ActionAid Kenya grows stronger with each passing day. Together, let’s continue advancing gender equality and empowering women to be the change-makers of tomorrow.
Author: Ezra Kiriago ,Communications Coordinator ActionAid Kenya.