Gusii women determined to turn the tables on patriarchy

Nyamira Woman Rep Jerusha Momanyi, who has declared interest in the Nyamira governor seat, says elective seats are not a preserve of men in the community.

Momanyi, who is serving her second term, says there is much women leaders can learn in Gusii politics.

“Elective positions are not a preserve of men, let us embrace what other communities are doing. Women leaders must be ready for the duel ahead of us,” she says.

Her Kisii counterpart Dorice Donya says some male politicians are intimidated by women leaders.

“Few expected us to get to the top. We have achieved a lot politically and in terms of development. Fortunately, we are receiving support from men,” she said.

According to Donya, women leaders spend less time politicking, resulting in better development records.

Women leaders in the region have made progress toward achieving gender parity in politics, especially in their quest for more representation in elective positions.

Edina Kwamboka, a Nominated MCA, says it is the responsibility of those who have been given power to lead to show the world and the community that women can offer alternative leadership.

Kwamboka says she is eyeing the Bomachage Chache parliamentary seat in the next election.

“We need more Kisii women in elective posts. We have seen women taking a stand when it comes to issues affecting society, including gender-based violence and political prejudice,” she says.

Nominated MCA Lilian Gor, who also serves as a Commissioner with the Kisii County Assembly Service Board, has introduced a bill in the Assembly to ensure compliance with the 30 per cent rule in favour of youth, women, and people living with disabilities, in the distribution of county contracts.

“The last election was a major win for us. The majority of women in our Assembly were nominated through minority parties. We are making strides, and soon we will be there,” says Gor.

Nominated Senator Essy Okenyuri says women in Kisii look up to pioneers.

“There is nothing more inspiring in the quest to reach out for more or be more than society thinks is normal for one’s kind than having a hero or heroine who walked the same soil, breathed the same air, lived in the same neighborhood and went to same schools,” she says.

Nominated MCA Damaris Nyanchoka said the future is bright for Kisii women.

“Kisii is experiencing new political dynamics. Our people are ready to support us, but we must build parties with ideologies that support women’s leadership,” she observes.

Nominated Ward Rep Dolphine Bwari (UDA) says Kisii women are making a significant mark on the political scene.

“There are those who still think women have no say in leadership; their thinking is archaic,” she says.

Bwari says the journey to greater political representation is full of ups and downs. “The task before us is enormous, but we have proved that we can fight for that space.”

Edinah Kangwana, a Gender Advocacy and Leadership Expert says gender activism in the region has streamlined women’s participation in the region’s politics.

“There is hope that women leaders from the region have made major strides.”