Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage Hanna Cheptumo has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to promoting equality and inclusion in all spheres of society.
She spoke as the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) officially launched its Strategic Plan 2025–2029 and unveiled a new Award Scheme aimed at recognising champions of inclusion and non-discrimination across the country.
“This Strategic Plan is not just a document; it is a national call to action. It reaffirms our collective vision of a society where every Kenyan, regardless of gender, ability, or background, enjoys full rights, freedom, and opportunity,” said Cs Cheptumo.
She emphasised that the Ministry stands in full support of the Commission’s efforts and will continue working closely with stakeholders to ensure gender and equality issues are mainstreamed into all areas of national development.
“As a government, we are committed to walking the talk on equality. From grassroots empowerment to national legislation, we must embed inclusion at every level,” she added.
NGEC Chairperson Dr Joyce Mutinda described the five-year Strategic Plan as a well-defined roadmap for guiding Kenya toward a more inclusive and just society.
She noted that the Plan is grounded in Article 27 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality and freedom from discrimination, and aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030 as well as international obligations under the Sustainable Development Goals.
“This plan lays out a roadmap for mainstreaming equality in public and private institutions, enhancing access to services, and ensuring the voices of the marginalised are heard,” said Dr Mutinda.
She urged all sectors – government, civil society, private institutions, and development partners – to rally behind the plan, describing it as a shared national responsibility.
“Equality is not a task for one institution; it is a national obligation,” she said.
A key highlight of the launch was the unveiling of the Equality and Inclusion Excellence Award Scheme, an initiative designed to recognise and celebrate individuals and organisations making remarkable contributions toward advancing inclusion and human rights.
“We are launching this award to highlight innovation and dedication in promoting fairness and human dignity. It’s time we recognise those who go beyond policy to make equality a lived reality,” she said.
The scheme will feature categories for public service institutions, private sector players, civil society organisations, media houses, and individual advocates.
The event also drew strong support from development partners, with UN Women Kenya Country Representative Ms Antonia N’gabala Sodonon NGEC for what she termed a courageous and visionary strategy.
“This Plan gives measurable direction for equality and reflects Kenya’s leadership in upholding the SDGs,” said Antonia.
She emphasised that UN Women remains a steadfast partner and called for stronger collaboration to implement the plan.
The launch ceremony brought together key stakeholders from government, civil society, the private sector, development partners, and the media, underscoring the importance of a multisectoral approach to promoting equality, inclusion, and human rights in Kenya.
The NGEC Strategic Plan 2025–2029 is now expected to guide the Commission’s work in advancing equality and holding institutions accountable to constitutional principles.
It signals a new chapter in Kenya’s journey toward a fairer, more inclusive society where no one is left behind.
By Fride Amiani and Yvonne Wanjiru
