Nakuru: Employers in both public and private sectors have been encouraged to conduct regular gender audits to identify gender disparities in policies, practices, and organizational culture, aiming to enhance equity in workplaces. Dr. Lilian Chesikaw, Director of Egerton University's Institute of Gender, Women and Development Studies (IGWDS), emphasized the importance of equality and empowerment for all employees, considering them essential components of human development and basic human rights.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Chesikaw highlighted that demonstrating a commitment to gender equality through gender audits could improve employee morale and enhance an organization's reputation. She elaborated that a more equitable workplace environment could lead to increased productivity, innovation, and overall organizational success. Gender audits reveal hidden biases and inequalities in recruitment, promotion, pay, and other workplace practices, affecting all genders.
These remarks were made during the Institute's Annual Training and Sensitization workshop on gender mainstreaming and gender-based violence (GBV) held at Egerton University's Njoro Main Campus. The event reflects the institution's commitment to the Performance Contracting and Reporting process, aligning with national and international frameworks such as the International Labour Organization's (ILO) Convention on Equal Remuneration, Kenya's Employment Act 2007, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Dr. Chesikaw further noted that gender audits could uncover issues related to workplace culture, such as sexual harassment and discrimination, which can be addressed to create a more positive and respectful environment. She stated, "Studies show that organizations with greater gender equality tend to have better financial performance and employee satisfaction." Despite existing legal frameworks and policies promoting gender equality in Kenya, the Director stressed the importance of organizations conducting regular gender audits to demonstrate their commitment.
Chesikaw observed that addressing gender inequalities allows organizations to contribute to national development goals, improve workplace dynamics, and foster a more equitable and inclusive society. The process involves reviewing documents, conducting surveys, holding focus group discussions, and interviewing employees, with the data collected analyzed to identify patterns and areas of concern related to gender equality.
The workshop was attended by representatives from the International Solidarity Foundation (ISF), Monchari, Damaris Mwikali, and Douglas Moenga, who shared insights from gender initiatives in Kisii and Nyamira Counties. Prof. Bernard Aduda, Egerton University's Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, praised the Institute's efforts in raising awareness on gender issues. He encouraged women to apply for senior leadership roles to overcome the glass ceiling in institutions and urged them to combat harmful cultural practices, such as female genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriages, which hinder women's potential.
Prof. Aduda acknowledged the long and challenging journey of women in leadership, noting that their determination has brought about positive outcomes. He called for all genders to take active leadership roles and ensure their voices are heard in decision-making to shape Kenya's development.