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The Nairobian

Progress has been made, but more needs to be done to close gender gap

Opinion

By Susan Githuku | Mar 11, 2025

**Participants during the International Women's Day celebrations at Nyangera Sports Ground in Yimbo East, Usigu sub-county, on March 8, 2025.** [Isaiah Gwengi, Standard]

This year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) theme, 'Accelerate Action', calls for rapid advancements in gender equality, focusing on recognising strategies that drive women's progress in education, employment, and leadership. But beyond the speeches and social campaigns, the question remains: How much has changed over the years? What can we celebrate? and what more can be done to accelerate progress?

For over a century, women have made tremendous progress in different aspects of society. From earning the right to vote and accessing education to increased participation in leadership roles, women have broken barriers that once seemed unachievable.

Increasing awareness of global commitments to gender equality issues is a remarkable achievement. Many countries have enacted laws protecting women against discrimination, gender-based violence (GBV), and workplace harassment. Social movements have empowered women to speak out and demand for justice and change.

Kenya has not been left behind. Over the years, the country has seen women rise to influential positions in politics, business, sports, and science. Remarkable women such as Hulday Momanyi Hiltsley, who became the first Kenyan born woman to win the Minnesota House of Representative seat in the 2024 US Elections and Vivo Fashion Group CEO Wandia Gichuru, who launched her apparel business in the US and has been featured in the Forbes' 50 over 50 Global 2025 are a key inspiration for women in the world over.

Despite this progress, the reality remains that gender inequality remains deeply rooted in many aspects of society. In 2019, Equileap published a report on gender equality in Kenya, revealing that on average, women earn 32 per cent less than their male counterparts, compared to 23 per cent globally for the same job. In addition, GBV remains a serious concern, with reports indicating that 39 per cent of Kenyan women have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. In education, while more girls are enrolling in school than ever before, cultural barriers, early marriages, and period poverty continues to be a challenge that prevents them from completing their studies.

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While IWD serves as a great platform for discussion and recognition, the day has over the years become more of a corporate checklist, rather than a call for change. Many organisations host colourful luncheons, panel discussions, and run marketing campaigns that, though with good intentions, often fail to drive meaningful impact. The true measure of commitment lies in sustaining action beyond March 8. Companies need to go beyond one-off initiatives and implement policies that drive gender equity all year.

Economic empowerment is critical to bridging the gender gap. Women led businesses in Kenya face many challenges, from limited access to credit facilities to societal biases. Programmes like the Women Enterprise Fund and informal savings groups commonly know as Chamas have provided financial independence for many, but there is still need for more inclusive financial policies that cater for women entrepreneurs. Additionally, industries must ensure that women receive fair opportunities for career growth.

Gender equality is not just a women’s issue. It is a societal one. More men are recognising the importance of standing as allies in this fight. Initiatives such as workplace diversity, and mentorship programmes for young girls are just a few ways in which organisations can promote equality. Companies need to encourage men to champion gender equity and equality by actively supporting their female colleagues and advocating for equal pay and fair treatment.

IWD should be a celebration and a call to action. A lot needs to be done to close the gender gap in Kenya and beyond. There is need for governments to put in place policies that address GBV, equal pay, and leadership representation. Organisations need to commit to measurable actions.

While the progress made is inspiring, the challenges ahead should drive us to do more. True gender equality can only be achieved when women have equal opportunities, rights, and respect as their male counterparts. Let us commit to making the future brighter for all women.