President William Ruto has honoured all women in the country, wishing them a happy International Women’s Day. President William Ruto reaffirmed the Kenya Kwanza government’s commitment to supporting women. In a video shared on his social media accounts on Saturday, March 8, Ruto reaffirmed the Kenya Kwanza government’s commitment to empowering women and girls in the country. He emphasised that the government sees empowerment not just as a step toward equality and justice but as a catalyst for a stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous society. “We remain resolute in our quest to breaking barriers, expanding opportunities and fostering an environment where every woman and girl can thrive, lead and realize their full potential,” Ruto said. “To the women shaping strong families behind the scenes.
To the entrepreneurs, innovators and change makers driving our economy forward. And to leaders in politics, community service guiding us into the future. Your courage inspires us all today and always. Happy International Women’s Day,” he added. Did Ruto hint at picking woman as deputy in future? The head of state has repeatedly advocated for women’s empowerment in the country. President William Ruto speaking at a previous event. In March 2024, Ruto directed United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Chairperson Cecily Mbarire to draft regulations requiring male presidential candidates to select female running mates and vice versa. The head of state reaffirmed his commitment to fully implementing the two-thirds gender rule under his Kenya Kwanza administration. Ruto stated that his strong support for women stems from their reliability during his 2022 presidential campaign.
He claimed that women made up the majority of those who voted for him in the highly contested election. The head of state emphasized the need for female leaders in top political positions, citing their proven track record. He highlighted the bold moves made by the Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire in defecting from their previous parties to join the Kenya Kwanza camp ahead of the highly contested 2022 General Election. Ruto contributes KSh 100m to anti-femicide campaign On another occasion, Ruto reaffirmed his commitment to supporting women by allocating Ksh 100 million to the anti-femicide campaign. Recently, the country has witnessed several incidents of women being brutally murdered in cold blood.
Acknowledging the rise in such incidents, Ruto reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating the vice that has claimed the lives of several women. Additionally, he directed law enforcement officers to take decisive action against those responsible for the incidents. READ ALSO Kenya newspapers review: Why Ruto rushed to seal working agreement with Raila after AUC defeat In addition to police action, he suggested raising awareness among women to help them protect themselves from potential threats as a strategy to combat femicide.
by Faith Chandianya