As Emma Watson aptly states, “Gender equality is not a women’s issue, it is a human issue. It affects us all.” This belief drives my unwavering commitment to promoting gender justice within my community. Advancing gender justice is essential for fostering collective development, promoting social justice, and upholding human rights.

Growing up in a patriarchal society where women were marginalized, I witnessed firsthand the systemic barriers limiting their potential. A pivotal moment in my journey was seeing a close friend forced into early marriage, cutting short her dreams of education. This fueled my determination to advocate for women’s rights and challenge harmful practices.

As the Founder of Safe Steps Foundation Kenya and Project Lead at Naretu Maa CBO, I actively champion gender justice through advocacy, community-based interventions, and policy engagement. My work primarily addresses gender-based violence (GBV), female genital mutilation (FGM), girls’ education, women’s socioeconomic empowerment, and menstrual health and hygiene.

Key Achievements and Impact

Through strategic interventions and collaboration with local stakeholders, my work has led to significant transformations in the community:

  • Rescued over 300 girls at risk of FGM in Bomet and Kajiado, including 30+ girls personally rescued in Esonorua Village, with 17 currently on scholarships.
  • Secured scholarships for over 80 girls, ensuring they continue their education.
  • Mentored and graduated over 180 girls through the Alternative Rite of Passage (AROP) program, providing a culturally sensitive alternative to FGM and early marriage.
  • Empowered over 600 women through entrepreneurship and financial literacy training, linking them to women-friendly financial institutions.
  • Registered three Maasai widows’ self-help groups, equipping them with skills in beadwork and sustainable income generation.
  • Advocated for and contributed to the formulation of a gender-responsive GBV policy in Kajiado County, addressing FGM, early marriages, teenage pregnancies, and barriers to girls’ education.
  • Collaborated with authorities to establish a Child Protection Unit (CPU) at a police station and a rescue center for GBV survivors.

Primary Beneficiaries of My Work

My work primarily benefits young women aged 12-30, marginalized women, and people with disabilities (PWDs). These groups face systemic inequalities that hinder their access to education, economic opportunities, and social justice. Through targeted interventions, I strive to ensure they have the necessary resources and support to thrive.

Challenges and Strategies for Overcoming Them

Community work comes with unique challenges, but through determination, strategic interventions, and partnerships, I have navigated many obstacles. Some key challenges and solutions include:

  1. Legal and Policy Implementation Gaps – Some counties, such as Bomet, still lack gender-responsive policies, weakening advocacy efforts and making it difficult for survivors to access justice.
    • Solution: Partnered with grassroots organizations and county governments to push for comprehensive policy frameworks, including establishing a Child Protection Unit and rescue center for GBV survivors.
  2. Cultural and Community Resistance – In a deeply patriarchal society, women’s empowerment is often viewed as a threat to traditional leadership and cultural norms.
    • Solution: Engaged elders, religious leaders, and male allies in gender dialogues and promoted culturally sensitive alternatives like the AROP program to shift mindsets.
  3. Lack of Resources and Funding – As a small organization, securing sustainable funding for gender equality programs in marginalized communities remains a challenge.
    • Solution: Formed strategic partnerships with local and international organizations, applied for grants, and leveraged community support to sustain programs.

Gender justice is not just about politics, it is about transforming lives and securing a better future for all. By continuing to advocate, empower, and engage communities, we can build a society where every girl and woman thrives.