NGEC Marks International Women's Day 2025 with a Strong Call for Equality and Empowerment

The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) joined Kenya and the global community in commemorating International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 on March 8. The event, which celebrates women's achievements in socio-economic, cultural, and political spheres, also serves as a platform to reflect on progress and challenges in gender equality.

This year’s celebration holds particular significance as it coincides with the 30th Anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BDPfA)—a landmark global commitment to advancing women’s rights. The 2025 theme, "For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment," underscores the need for sustained efforts in achieving gender parity across all sectors of society.

Progress in Gender Equality

Kenya has made commendable strides in promoting gender equality and empowering women, anchored on the progressive provisions of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010. The principles of equality, inclusion, and non-discrimination have shaped national policies and programs aimed at bridging gender gaps. Key areas of progress include education, economic empowerment, leadership representation, and genderbased violence prevention.

Significant progress has been recorded in education, with near parity in primary school enrollment and an increase in secondary school transition rates to 83%. Women’s financial inclusion has also expanded, with 82% of women now accessing financial services, largely facilitated by mobile banking and digital finance.

Government-led initiatives such as the Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO), Women Enterprise Fund (WEF), Uwezo Fund, National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), and the Hustler Fund have bolstered women's participation in economic activities by increasing access to credit and business opportunities.

Leadership and Representation

The number of women in leadership roles has risen significantly. The proportion of female governors increased from 6.3% (3 out of 47) in 2017 to 14.9% (7 out of 47) in 2022. Women’s representation in senior corporate leadership has also improved, with 36% of executive positions now held by women, up from 24% in 2017.

Advances in Gender-Based Violence

Prevention Kenya has made measurable progress in addressing gender-based violence (GBV). Efforts to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) have yielded positive results, with the prevalence rate declining from 21% in 2014 to 14.8% in 2022. Enhanced legal frameworks, community engagement, and digital platforms have strengthened reporting and response mechanisms for survivors of GBV.

NGEC’s commitment to gender equality was reinforced through various regional commemorations held across the country. The Kisumu, Malindi, Kitui, and Nakuru regional teams collaborated with partners to mark the day at NYS Grounds, Sumbukia Sub-County, engaging communities in discussions on women's rights and empowerment.

In Isiolo, the regional team joined stakeholders at Isiolo Women’s Prison to champion gender equality and climate action. The event amplified the call to accelerate gender equality, empower women and girls, and build an inclusive future for all.

While Kenya has made notable progress, challenges remain, including gender wage gaps, underrepresentation in decision-making, and persistent gender-based violence. The NGEC reiterates the importance of sustained policy implementation, increased investment in women’s economic opportunities, and stronger enforcement of legal protections to ensure that the vision of the BDPfA is fully realized.

As the world marks International Women’s Day 2025, NGEC calls upon all stakeholders— including government agencies, private sector players, civil society organizations, and individuals—to reaffirm their commitment to gender equality.

Only through collective action can Kenya achieve a future where all women and girls enjoy their rights, have equal opportunities, and thrive in an inclusive society.

Participants gather for a group photo at the International Women's Day 2025 event in Kisumu