MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENTThe war against femicide and Gender-Based Violence received a shot in the arm after female lawmakers launched a national campaign to end the problem.
Kenya Women Parliamentarian Association (Kewopa) announced all 102 female legislators from both the National Assembly and Senate would lead the campaign in their respective jurisdictions.
The Komesha Dhuluma initiative will receive Sh100 million in support from President William Ruto, Kewopa chair Leah Sankaire announced.
Sankaire said members would localise the initiative through community sensitisation and engagement forums tailored to address the specific needs of their constituencies
"We are working with stakeholders, among them women's rights organisations, the Judiciary, and law enforcement agencies, to ensure survivors receive justice and support,” she said during the launch of the initiative.
The campaign is hoping to directly engage 100,000 women, men, youth, and persons living with disabilities at the grassroots level.
Likoni MP Mishi Mboko urged all Kenyans to support the initiative, emphasising that gender-based violence affects everyone.
“Ending femicide and gender-based violence is not just a women’s issue. It is a national priority. Men are also victims of this menace. We must unite to build a safer, just society where everyone can live free from fear and violence.”
During the week, Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula announced a retreat to evaluate the legislative progress and outline priorities for the upcoming Parliamentary session.
Scheduled from January 27 to 31, 2025, in Naivasha, the retreat will accord MPs the opportunity to reflect on achievements and strategise for the fourth session, which will commence on February 10, 2025.
It will also provide MPs with an opportunity to reflect on the progress made during the first three sessions.
The retreat will feature plenary discussions and panel sessions facilitated by seasoned experts, including current and former legislators. MPs are also expected to explore ways of improving legislative processes.
Further, the National Assembly passed the Persons with Disabilities Bill, (Senate Bill No. 7 of 2023) sponsored by Nominated Senator Crystal Asige.
The Bill seeks to give effect to Article 54 of the Constitution; to restructure the National Council for Persons with Disabilities and to provide an institutional framework for protecting, promoting and monitoring the rights of persons with disabilities. It also provides for incentives and reliefs.
The legislation also provides tax incentives for donations, bequests, and subsidies made for the benefit of persons with disabilities.
Expenses incurred by employers who make reasonable accommodation in their premises for employees with disabilities will benefit from a tax exemption.
The National Assembly also passed the Startup Bill (Senate Bill No. 14 of 2022). The Bill outlines various measures to support startups, define their eligibility, and establish frameworks for their growth and protection.
The Bill mandates the Kenya National Innovation Agency and Kenya Industrial Estates to support startups by developing a national incubation framework, fostering innovation, and creating linkages between universities and the business sector.
Additionally, a multi-agency startup committee will oversee certifications, develop guidelines for incubators and accelerators, and accredit startups.
The Bill establishes a Startup Fund (Clause 32A) to provide financial support. Funding sources include government appropriations, grants, and donations.
