President William Ruto's Adviser on Women Rights Harriette Chiggai has called for collaborations to enhance gender parity in leadership positions.
Chiggai said the private sector, civil society and government agencies must work together to promote gender diversity in the workplace.
She further called on women leaders to advocate for children-friendly workplaces that encourage young mothers to carry their babies along for maximum productivity.
“Studies show that companies with diverse boards perform better financially. However, cultural norms, biases and lack of opportunities hinder women's advancement,” she stated.
Speaking during the 4th Women on Boards Network Annual Gala Dinner Awards, Chiggai said women in leadership positions should challenge the status quo and address issues like unpaid care work.
“There is no doubt that women bring unique perspectives and skills to the boardroom,” she emphasised.
Chiggai noted that several institutions in Kenya have made significant strides in embracing gender parity in leadership positions.
“In the corporate sector, Safaricom has achieved a 50:50 gender split in their boardroom. Others include EABL, KCB Group, Absa, and even Equity Group,” she stated.
Chiggai pointed out that in government institutions, the Judiciary leads with women making up over 50 per cent of leadership positions.
Dhiren Ahuja, the proprietor of Cheers and Bakery Café - a Women on Boards Network partner - urged women leaders to be on the frontline in fighting for gender parity in places of work.
Ahuja hailed organisers of the event for recognising both women and men who have been championing the conversation around diversity and inclusion in the boardroom.
Farida Abdalla Soud, Mombasa county public service board chairperson, noted that Kenya has made significant strides in increasing representation of women in leadership roles.
“We must continue to push forward challenging old paradigms, supporting one another, and working toward lasting change that benefits all,” she said.
She added that the work women do on boards, in leadership roles and within their communities have far-reaching impact.
Chiggai recalled that on International Women’s Day 2024, President William Ruto reaffirmed his administration's commitment to gender equality, emphasising its importance in promoting women’s leadership across all government institutions.
