NGEC Welcomes Gambian Delegation for Pioneering Study Visit on Gender Equality and Inclusion

In a significant step towards strengthening regional partnerships, the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) recently hosted a high-level delegation from the Republic of The Gambia. The delegation, comprising Select Members of Parliament and representatives from the Civil Society Organization Gender Platform (CSO-Gender Platform) from both Kenya and Gambia, engaged in an enlightening study visit aimed at advancing gender equality and inclusion in Africa.

The delegation was led by Hon. Fatoumatta Njai, a prominent Gambian politician, who expressed her commitment to establishing a National Gender and Equality Commission in Gambia. In her remarks, she shared, “It would be a privilege to contribute to the creation of a National Gender and Equality Commission in our tenure, with the goal of advancing the equality agenda in Gambia.” This statement underscored the Gambian government's intent to adopt Kenya’s proven model of gender equality advocacy.

Throughout the visit, the Gambian delegation participated in a series of dialogues, workshops, and site visits that explored Kenya’s innovative strategies in gender inclusion, policy development, and advocacy. Discussions delved into Kenya's progress and challenges in areas such as the implementation of the two-thirds gender rule, which mandates equitable representation in decision-making, and the country's ongoing efforts to improve gender parity across all sectors.

Thomas Koyier, the Acting Chairperson of NGEC, shared his reflections on Kenya's commitment to inclusivity. “Our Constitution anchors inclusivity, with special attention to gender and marginalized groups. This exchange lays a strong foundation for building inclusivity across borders,” he said, emphasizing the role of collaboration in creating long-lasting change in gender equality.

The delegation also had the opportunity to engage with local organizations such as the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE), gaining valuable insights into efforts to address gender- based violence, promote women in leadership, and offer psychosocial support to victims of gender inequality.

Dr. Purity Ngina, CEO of NGEC, underscored the importance of a collective approach to achieving gender equality. “Achieving gender equality requires collective action and inclusive leadership at all levels,” Dr. Ngina stated, reinforcing the need for all stakeholders to work together toward lasting solutions.

The visit was part of the EU-funded CODE Project, which seeks to foster regional collaboration and knowledge exchange on gender mainstreaming and advocacy. The Gambian delegation left Kenya with a wealth of practical insights on implementing gender-inclusive policies, with a view to strengthening the advocacy and legislative frameworks back home.

In turn, the engagement reinforced the importance of African nations working together to achieve gender equality across the continent.

NGEC’s role in promoting gender equality extends beyond Kenya’s borders, as it strives to create an inclusive society through global partnerships. This study visit exemplifies the transformative potential of knowledge-sharing and collaboration in overcoming the persistent gender disparities that continue to affect communities across Africa.

As both Kenya and The Gambia continue their journey toward gender equality, NGEC’s leadership in fostering cross- border collaboration demonstrates that when nations unite and share best practices, significant strides can be made in the pursuit of equality and inclusion for all.

Hon. Fatoumatta Njai, leader of the Gambian Delegation