IEBC calls for training, reforms to boost women’s participation in elections

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has called for increased awareness and education programs to empower more women to participate in politics and leadership roles.

IEBC CEO Marjan Hussein Marjan underscored the need for targeted training on electoral processes in preparation for the 2027 elections to ensure women take part in the exercise.

He was speaking during a training workshop by FAWE in Machakos for 30 young women leaders and aspirants on existing electoral processes for effective participation and early preparations for elections.

Marjan further called upon political parties to enforce the two-thirds gender rule and reduce nominations fees for women vying for various seats.

He noted that the implementation of such strategies would increase women’s participation in elections.

The number of women elected to leadership positions in the 2022 elections increased, with 7 women elected as Governors, 30 as Members of Parliament and 114 as ward representatives.

Richard Chalagat, a Financial Officer at FAWE stressed the importance of motivating young women to take up leadership roles.

However, participants like Rahma Issa pointed out the lack of adequate education among women has widened the leadership gap between men and women.