Women key to Africa’s advancement and development-Joyce Kithure

Deputy President Spouse, Dr. Joyce Kithure, has challenged women from Africa to continue strongly pushing for their voices and efforts to be considered in the quest for a better continent.

She said Africa cannot afford to ignore efforts by women who play a big role in its development.

“Across Africa, women have always been at the heart of resilience and progress. Whether in business, science, education, agriculture, technology, or public service, women have been building, nurturing, and sustaining the systems that hold our societies together.

And yet, we also know that many continue to face, structural, cultural, and economic barriers,” she said.

She spoke on Friday evening during the inaugural First Ladies of Africa Impact and Resilience (FLAIR) Gala & Dinner Awards held in Nairobi.

Dr. Kithure, a scientist and lecturer at University of Nairobi, stated that societies that empower women and girls are bound to experience immense transformation.

“As a scientist and educator, I have seen first-hand how transformative empowerment can be. When a girl is given access to education, mentorship, resources, and opportunity, she does not just change her story, she changes the story of everyone around her. She becomes a catalyst for growth, innovation, and generational transformation,” she asserted.

Further, she challenged them not to give up despite the challenges frustrating their efforts for a better continent.

“Your voice matters. Your leadership matters. You are powerful, and your contributions are shaping the Africa we want,” Dr. Kithure added.

She also called for continuous empowerment of women and girls emphasizing advocacy and collaboration among all actors.

“Empowering women is not an event it is a continuous commitment. It is a movement that requires collaboration, policy advocacy, mentorship, and sustained investment. It calls on each of us to use our voices, our platforms, and our influence to create pathways for others,” she stated.