Women leaders have rallied Kenyans to support and vote Yes, during the anticipated plebiscite to change the constitution spearheaded by the BBI process.
“Time has come for women voices to be heard in any decision making process and implementation of various policies in the country. This will only be achievable if women get fully involved in the ongoing national discourse,” said Kitui County Governor Charity Ngilu.
Ngilu noted that the moment for constitutional amendment was nigh, adding that increased funding for devolved governments will turn round the livelihoods of women’s table banking initiatives.
The governor made the remarks Tuesday at Kitui Stadium where the national government disbursed Sh68 million to support various youth and women groups in the area.
“The tokenism mentality is outdated and obsolete in today’s society. Marginalized groups like the youth and women need empowerment to drive their lives and generate wealth as well as create job opportunities, ” said the Governor.
She said that BBI, a product of the handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and Former Prime Raila Odinga on March 2018, will ensure Kenyans do not shed blood during every general election cycle.
Ngilu noted that the proposed constitutional changes espouse the aspirations of many Kenyans to create a conducive democratic environment.
“We have been in the trenches agitating for constitutional changes for a better country. Let’s embrace dialogue for a cohesive nation, ” she said.
On her part, Ministry of Public Service and Gender Chief Administrative Secretary Rachel Shebesh urged more youth and women to form groups and secure empowerment funding from the national government.
“The government has set aside enough funds to be disbursed through Uwezo, Youth Enterprise and Women Enterprise Funds, ” said Shebesh.
By Yobesh Onwong’a
