Kenya’s third National Action Plan (KNAP III) on women, peace and security is seeking to improve the capacity of national and county-level conflict resolution agencies to integrate women’s participation in peacebuilding.
Through multi-stakeholder collaboration, the strategy will ensure that women are meaningfully involved in the prevention, protection, mediation and recovery efforts from conflict in line with the Women, Peace and Security agenda of the United Nations Resolution 1325.
Over the years, from the implementation of the first National Action Plan in 2016, the country has witnessed a significant increase in the number of women involved either directly or indirectly in peace processes. However, more undertaking among peace and security agencies is required to address persistent gaps derailing full implementation of the resolution.
State Department for Gender Affairs and Affirmative Action Principal Secretary Anne Wangómbe, said that the third National Action Plan (2025-2029) will address national peace and security priorities through robust institutional coordination aligned with regional and global frameworks.
“The Government of Kenya remains fully committed to implementing KNAP III, not only as an obligation to international commitments but also as a national priority for peace, security, and development”, said PS Wangómbe, adding that the government will continue investing in the leadership and participation of women and youth as agents of peace security.
The PS revealed that a total of 19 out of the 47 counties have so far localized and adopted the Women, Peace and Security agenda and developed corresponding County Action Plans, demonstrating grassroots efforts to address county-led challenges.
Additionally, she reported a steady rise in women’s representation within the security sector, including the Kenya Defence Forces, the National Police Service, and other institutions charged with safeguarding peace and security, Kenya's commitment to advancing the Women, Peace and Security Agenda. Wangómbe was addressing a stakeholder’s validation workshop of KNAP III in Nairobi.