Nanyuki: The retrogressive culture and inadequate allocation of resources have been cited as major hindrances in addressing care economy crises in Laikipia County. Gender stakeholders speaking in Nanyuki during a sensitization forum on the care economy highlighted that domestic work, which is predominately done by women, was the least supported sector.
According to Kenya News Agency, Karen Kiogora, Laikipia County Gender Coordinator, expressed that they have encountered numerous challenges during sensitization efforts, especially concerning ingrained cultural norms and stereotypes. She emphasized that the communities are resistant to change, but efforts are underway to enlighten them about the severe impact of retrogressive culture on the care economy.
Ms. Salome Mbochi, Hand in Hand East Africa's Business Relationship Officer and one of the organizers of the sensitization forum, stressed that care work forms the foundation of society and involves activities that support community needs. She outlined the organization's goals to combat poverty through job creation and enterprises, aiming to sensitize the community on recognizing and alleviating the burden of care work placed on women and girls. This includes efforts to redistribute, reward, and represent them more fairly.
Joshua Kaburu, a participant in the forum, urged men to support domestic workers and challenged the retrogressive perception that certain roles are gender-specific. He highlighted the importance of overcoming these stereotypes to foster a more equitable society.
The Kenya National Policy, which is pending Cabinet approval, highlights the disparity in unpaid care work between genders. It reveals that women spend four to five hours daily on unpaid care work compared to about an hour for men. Additionally, women work seven to eight hours per day, whereas men work six to seven hours, illustrating a significant gender gap. Globally, 76 percent of women engage in unpaid care work. The policy aims to address these inequalities associated with unpaid care and domestic work once it receives approval.