Empowering Marginalized Communities: NGEC's Call to Action for Inclusion in National Policies

At the recent Consultative Forum on Constitutional Definitions of Marginalized Communities, the National Gender and Equality Commission reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that historically marginalized groups are recognised, included, and protected under Kenya's national policies.

The event, saw a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including policy experts, civil society organisations, and representatives from marginalized communities, coming together to address the pressing issues of inequality and exclusion.

NGEC Chairperson Hon. Rehema Jaldesa, alongside Commissioner Caroline Lentupuru, underscored the urgent need to define and address the needs of marginalized communities within the framework of Kenya’s Constitution. With marginalized groups often facing barriers to accessing critical services such as education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, the discussions centred on how to ensure their rightful inclusion in the nation’s development agenda.

The consultative forum, which featured a series of presentations and panel discussions, brought to light the numerous challenges faced by marginalized groups, including women, youth, persons with disabilities, indigenous communities, and the elderly. Many of these groups continue to struggle with limited access to resources, legal recognition, and political representation.

During the forum, Commissioner Caroline Lentupuru highlighted the significant role of the NGEC in advocating for the inclusion of these groups in national policies. She called for a more comprehensive approach to defining marginalized communities within the Constitution, particularly in a way that ensures these groups can access the rights and services guaranteed to them by law.

In response to these calls for action, Hon. Jaldesa reiterated the commission’s commitment to engaging with policymakers to ensure that the constitutional definition of marginalized groups is updated to reflect these concerns.

She also noted that the forum would be followed by a series of regional consultations, where community members would have the opportunity to share their experiences and contribute to the ongoing dialogue.

Chairperson Hon. Rehema Jaldesa and Commissioner Caroline N. Lentupuru pose for a group photo with participants during the Consultative Forum