Women legislators root for data-driven policy making in parliament

Thursday, June 5, 2025,
Nairobi, Nairobi County

Members of the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) have emphasized the need to strengthen the use of data and research in Parliamentary decision-making.

The lawmakers, drawn from both the National Assembly and the Senate, made the call during a high-level panel discussion on evidence-informed policymaking, held in Nairobi. The forum was organized by Kewopa Kenya in collaboration with IDinsight, a global research and data analytics organization.

The session focused on the importance of grounding policy decisions in evidence, particularly in key areas such as health, technology, and inclusive development.

Speaking on behalf of KEWOPA Chairperson Hon. Leah Sankaire (Kajiado), Teso South MP Hon. Mary Emaase urged public institutions to enhance their effectiveness by relying on accurate and verifiable data.

“Parliament carries the critical responsibility of shaping laws and policies that affect millions of Kenyans. Our work must be guided not only by values and vision but also by sound evidence,” Hon. Emaase stated.

Suba North MP Hon. Millie Odhiambo, a panelist at the event, called on the research community to focus on studies that highlight the impact of women's participation in leadership.

“We need data to show that when women are in Parliament, they speak on issues that often go unaddressed—such as health, caregiving, and social welfare,” Hon. Odhiambo said.

She also addressed concerns regarding recent government projects launched in Homa Bay County during President William Ruto’s visit. These included the commissioning of the Boma Yangu Affordable Housing Phase I, a modern fish market, and the hosting of Madaraka Day celebrations.

“It is not a matter of political favour. Research and data show that Homa Bay has historically been marginalized,” she explained.

Representing the Clerk of the National Assembly, Director of Legal Services Ms. Vane Akama reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to evidence-based legislation.

“Our Research Services team collects, analyses, and synthesizes data to provide actionable insights that support Parliamentary processes,” she noted.

Other contributors included Dr. Martin Mbewa, Head of Research at the Centre for Parliamentary Studies and Training (CPST), and Dr. Nyawira Gitahi, Director at IDinsight. Officials from UN Women and the Parliamentary Research Services were also present and made valuable contributions.