KEWOPA AND IPF engage lawmakers to boost gender and health advocacy

𝐍𝐚𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐚, 𝐍𝐚𝐤𝐮𝐫𝐮 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲
𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟏𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓,

The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA), in collaboration with the Institute of Public Finance (IPF) convened a high-level meeting with Members of Parliament to reinforce gender and health advocacy efforts under the Strengthening Parliamentary Leadership for Improved Health and Gender Outcomes (SPALTA) initiative.

The session, held today aimed to equip legislators with practical tools and insights to drive policy reforms that promote gender equality and improved health systems.

The SPALTA program focuses on building the capacity of parliamentarians to champion inclusive and gender-sensitive legislation and budgeting.

Parliamentarians from both the National Assembly and Senate, particularly those serving on key committees such as Budget and Appropriations, Finance, Health, Social Protection, and Labour, participated in the discussions.

The lawmakers assessed progress made, highlighted existing challenges, and explored strategies to enhance their effectiveness in fulfilling their constitutional roles.

A key topic of discussion was the underrepresentation of women in committee leadership and the need for institutional reforms to address the disparities.

The meeting also emphasised the role of male champions in promoting gender equity, and the value of collaboration with oversight institutions and civil society organizations in monitoring gender outcomes in public budgets.

Participants reviewed international models of success, such as Uganda’s and Rwanda’s gender-responsive budgeting practices, including the use of gender equity certification. 

Legislators present pledged their commitment to fostering gender-responsive leadership and supporting equitable development at all levels of government.