The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Ingonga, has called on women serving in the prosecutorial field to embrace self-care and wellness as central pillars of effective leadership and justice delivery.
Speaking in Kisumu while presiding over the ODPP Western Region Women Conference, Ingonga described women as the heartbeat of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and the backbone of justice, lauding their critical role in advancing fairness and compassion within Kenya’s criminal justice system.
“Today we come together under the inspiring theme ‘Wellness, Work, and Warmth’, and the fitting timeline ‘Invest in Women – Confidence Rooted in Wellness, Work, and Warmth,’” said the DPP.
“It reminds us that societies can only thrive when women are empowered, when their contributions are recognized, and when gender equity is not just a principle but a practice,” he added.
He praised women prosecutors for balancing demanding professional responsibilities with family and community roles, describing them as the unseen architects of change who bring humanity into the justice process.
“Every successful prosecution, every trial reviewed, every victim comforted, and every case argued in court bears the mark of your diligence, intellect, and compassion. Women have long been the unseen architects of change, balancing professional responsibility, family, and community with unmarked strength,” he said.
Ingonga noted that women occupy key leadership positions across the ODPP — including Chiefs of Staff, General Coordinators, Division Directors, and Regional Heads—making the Office a model of gender inclusivity in the public service.
“I am proud to say that the ODPP stands as a shining example of gender inclusivity. Today, women make up a higher proportion of our prosecution counsel than men. This is not just a statistic but a statement of progress, of trust, and of deliberate investment in women’s leadership and capacity,” he said.
The DPP emphasised that empowerment begins with self-awareness and self-care, urging women to prioritise their physical, mental, and emotional well-being even as they dedicate themselves to public service.
“As you dedicate your lives to service, I urge you to also prioritise your own physical, mental, and emotional wellness. Taking care of yourself is not an act of indolence but an act of leadership,” he said, encouraging participants to take advantage of the health clinics and consultations provided during the event.
He further linked the conference’s wellness theme to Breast Cancer Awareness Month, noting that the timing was ideal to reaffirm the ODPP’s commitment to women’s health.
The DPP explained that the colour blue, chosen for the conference, symbolized calm, warmth, health, and equity — values embodied by women serving in the ODPP.
“It reflects the quiet strength of women who endure, live, and inspire. It symbolizes the dignity, wisdom, and resilience that women across the country embody every day in service to justice and country,” he said.
He urged senior prosecutors to mentor younger women within the ODPP, ensuring that the next generation finds allies and mentors rather than barriers in leadership.
“Let us create environments where young women feel seen, supported, and empowered to lead. The next generation of women prosecutors must find mentors, not gatekeepers; allies, not barriers,” he said.
Kisumu Governor’s spouse, Dorothy Nyong’o, who also graced the occasion, urged women to prioritise wellness through regular medical check-ups.
Mrs Nyong’o underscored the importance of early detection through routine breast and cervical cancer screening, describing it as key in combating diseases that continue to affect women’s health.
“Women must take charge of their health. Regular testing for breast and cervical cancer remains vital in prevention and control,” Mrs Nyong’o said, commending the ODPP for dedicating the forum to women’s wellness and empowerment.
By Chris Mahandara
