Factors Impeding Political Participation and Representation of Women in Kenya

Abstract

The quest for gender equity in Kenya is relevant for effective gender mainstreaming. Women have been marginalized and underrepresented in organs of decision-making and in governance structures of the country since independence. Kenya’s Constitution offers a framework to address this historical marginalization. Even though a number of women have made great strides in politics in the country, women representation is far below the minimum one third public service requirement of Article 27(3) of the Constitution of Kenya. Traditional beliefs, perceptions and stereotypes which depict women as being inferior have tended to militate towards their marginalization. Data on the numbers of elected Parliamentarians (including Senators, Governors and County Representatives) and holders of senior government positions shows that gender equity is still a mirage. Cultural impediments to women’s economic emancipation have also denied them political representation in the Legislature. Kenya has the challenge of identifying and implementing mechanisms – policies and practices - so as to achieve gender equity. Political parties are not keen to try and implement the minimum one third constitutional requirement for their lists of candidates nominated to vie in elections. Advancing the participation of women in devolved governance structures requires serious consideration by putting in place policy measures and interventions that would further this cause since equal gender participation is enshrined in the Constitution. It appears lack of political will is the biggest obstacle in addressing gender imbalance in the country. Thus there is greater need to address gender inequality in political representation and decision making in the country.