Mombasa: Women leaders from the Coast region have undergone a one-day multisectoral training in Mombasa to strengthen their leadership skills and prepare them for elective positions in the 2027 General Election. The forum, held at Sentrim Castle Royal Hotel, brought together around 30 women leaders, including elected and nominated MCAs, women representative aspirants, MP aspirants, and former leaders from Mombasa, Lamu, Tana River, Taita Taveta, Kilifi, and Kwale counties.
According to Kenya News Agency, the training was organised by the Democracy Trust Fund (DTF) in collaboration with Echo Network Africa and the Hanns Seidel Foundation. Speaking at the forum, DTF Executive Director Julia Kioo urged the women to make long-term plans and prepare adequately before entering the election race. She noted that poor planning often results in financial strain and emotional distress among unsuccessful aspirants.
DTF Executive Director Julia Kioo highlighted the consequences of inadequate preparation, stating, 'It is painful when elections are over and you have lost after spending all your money. This has led to cases of depression, broken families, and financial ruin. Some aspirants have even suffered strokes or worse due to a lack of proper planning.'
Governance and Elections Expert Joseph Mathai emphasized the importance of persistence and consistency in leadership. He advised participants to remain connected with voters beyond the election cycle, warning against appearing only during the campaign season. Mathai also cautioned against projecting flashy lifestyles on social media while communities face challenges, and encouraged leveraging opportunities within political party structures.
Former Kwale Woman Representative Zuleikha Hassan underscored the importance of building networks and alliances. She advised women to maintain visibility in both parliamentary and community spaces, suggesting befriending the media to publicize their work and developing a clear manifesto.
Lamu Woman Representative Aspirant Ruweidha Mohamed expressed concern over the lack of mentorship from women leaders who have already secured elective positions. She stressed the importance of building each other up and mentoring others.
Participants were also guided through the development of a Personal Political Leadership Development Plan (PPLDP), which included political and social content analysis, setting strategic goals, capacity development, networking and mentorship strategies, and monitoring progress for long-term success.