Empowering Youth for Gender Equality: Kisumu’s Pioneering Role in Inclusive Development

In Kisumu County, a transformative movement is taking shape, placing young women and men at the forefront of the fight for gender equality and social inclusion. At the heart of this initiative lies Women Volunteers for Peace (WOVOP), whose tireless efforts to dismantle systemic barriers are inspiring a wave of change across the region.

Supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Amkeni Wakenya, WOVOP is spearheading a project that not only empowers youth but also builds a foundation for sustainable and inclusive development.

Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) is more than a policy goal—it’s a cornerstone of progress. Communities flourish when everyone has equal opportunities to contribute and thrive, regardless of gender, age, or social status.

GESI tackles the systemic obstacles that prevent marginalized groups from accessing resources, education, and leadership opportunities, fostering a society where no one is left behind.

“Kisumu’s youth have untapped potential to be change-makers,” says Davis Okeyo, a representative of NGEC. “By addressing inequality and exclusion, we’re paving the way for a more equitable future.”

Youth as Agents of Change

At the core of this initiative is the belief that young people are pivotal in driving societal transformation. WOVOP’s workshops, dialogue forums, and community outreach programs are equipping youth with the skills to advocate for gender justice and inclusive policies. These efforts aim to cultivate innovation and resilience among the next generation of leaders.

Collaboration has been instrumental in scaling the impact of WOVOP’s work. UNDP and Amkeni Wakenya’s support has bolstered the initiative, providing resources and technical expertise to amplify its reach.

Together, these partnerships are advancing Kenya’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

As Kisumu leads the charge in promoting GESI, the ripple effects are undeniable. The initiative’s success is inspiring neighboring counties to adopt similar approaches, demonstrating that inclusive development is achievable through collaboration, empowerment, and a shared commitment to equity.

Participants gather for a group photo during the capacity-building workshopsupported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Amkeni Wakenya, WOVOP