Nairobi: Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage Hanna Cheptumo has reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to promoting equality and inclusion in all spheres of society. She spoke as the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) officially launched its Strategic Plan 2025-2029 and unveiled a new Award Scheme aimed at recognising champions of inclusion and non-discrimination across the country.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Strategic Plan is described by CS Cheptumo as a national call to action, emphasizing a collective vision for a society where every Kenyan, regardless of gender, ability, or background, enjoys full rights, freedom, and opportunity. She highlighted the Ministry's full support for the Commission's efforts and pledged continued collaboration with stakeholders to mainstream gender and equality issues into all areas of national development.
NGEC Chairperson Dr Joyce Mutinda presented the five-year Strategic Plan as a roadmap guiding Kenya toward a more inclusive and just society. She noted the Plan's grounding in Article 27 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality and freedom from discrimination, aligning with Kenya's Vision 2030 and international obligations under the Sustainable Development Goals.
Dr Mutinda urged all sectors - government, civil society, private institutions, and development partners - to rally behind the plan, describing it as a shared national responsibility. She stated, "Equality is not a task for one institution; it is a national obligation."
A key highlight of the launch was the unveiling of the Equality and Inclusion Excellence Award Scheme, designed to recognize and celebrate individuals and organizations making significant contributions toward advancing inclusion and human rights. The scheme will feature categories for public service institutions, private sector players, civil society organizations, media houses, and individual advocates.
The event also drew strong support from development partners, with UN Women Kenya Country Representative Ms Antonia N'gabala Sodonon commending NGEC for what she termed a courageous and visionary strategy. She emphasized UN Women's steadfast partnership and called for stronger collaboration to implement the plan.
The launch ceremony brought together key stakeholders from government, civil society, the private sector, development partners, and the media, underscoring the importance of a multisectoral approach to promoting equality, inclusion, and human rights in Kenya. The NGEC Strategic Plan 2025-2029 is now expected to guide the Commission's work in advancing equality and holding institutions accountable to constitutional principles, signaling a new chapter in Kenya's journey toward a fairer, more inclusive society where no one is left behind.