The Ministry marked the International Women’s Day on 8th March 2010 at the Mombasa Municipal Stadium. This is a UN annual event that is observed every 8th day of March by all UN member states in honour of women. Accordingly, Kenya, as a dedicated UN member state has been commemorating the International Women’s Day since 1988.

This is also a special day for the women to showcase their potential and advocate for gender responsive policies and programmes that will promote gender equality.

The theme for this year’s celebrations is: “Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities; Progress for All”

Background

In 1977 the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution inviting member states to proclaim a United Nations Day for Women’s Rights and international peace – International Women’s Day to be observed annually. The UN General Assembly further declared 8th March as an international day to be observed by all UN member States. Since then, the United Nations Organization has observed March 8th as International Women’s Day.

The purpose of this day is to recognize the fact that securing peace and social progress and the full enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms require the active participation, equality and development of women.
It is also a time to acknowledge the contribution of women to strengthening of international peace and security. This is therefore, a special Day that provides an opportunity for all women of the world to review the progress made in the struggle of equality, peace and development. It is an opportunity to unite, network and mobilize women’s efforts for meaningful change. For the women of Kenya, it is a special moment to reflect on the progress made in terms of government policy on promoting gender issues.
Since independence the Kenya government has demonstrated concern for the welfare and special needs of women due to the contribution that they make to the economic, social and political lives of their communities and the nation at large. Accordingly, Kenya has been commemorating the International women’s day every year. All the districts participate in observing this day by organizing special activities/ events reflecting the theme of the year. The day is usually launched on 1st March followed by weeklong activities
A National Multi- Sectoral Steering Committee under the chairmanship of the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Development coordinates the preparations of the weeklong programme of activities. The celebrations are observed in all the districts and provinces with support from the Department of Gender and Social Development. However, due to financial constraints we are unable to adequately support all the proposed weeklong activities.
Some of the activities proposed by the National steering Committee to be carried out by various districts during this year’s celebrations will include:
•    Public Talks/ Lectures on various topical issues affecting women( Cancer,  Teenage pregnancies, HIV/ AIDS)
•    Sporting Activities
•    Free Legal Aid and Counseling  services
•    Free medical Camps for  check ups and screening
•    Visits/ Donations  to needy families and   welfare institutions
•    Publicity activities/ Media presentations / interviews
•    Processions / Road shows
•    Media Break fast
•    Gala Night
•    Symposium
•    Dedication of special prayers by various religious groups

The National Multi Sectoral Steering Committee selected Baringo Central  district – Rift Valley Province as the national venue for the Launch on 1st March 2010.The National Rally celebrations will be observed on 8th March 2010 in Mombasa District (Coast Provincial Headquarters).
We therefore request for participation and support from all well wishers and friends of the women of Kenya to make the day success. The support could be in cash or kind and of any activity mentioned above.


Speech by HON. ESTHER MURUGI MATHENGE, EGH, MP,

Messages from:

Hon. Esther Murugi

Hon. Atanus Keya

PS, Dr. James Nyikal

CEO, Women Enterprise Fund, Wainaina Wa Njeri