Women and Political Participation at County Government in Kenya, Women Governors and Deputy Governors 2013-2022

Abstract

Representation of women in politics worldwide grew from global efforts towards empowerment of women and enhancing their participation in governance and leadership positions. Despite efforts to enhance women's political participation in most African countries, women continue to be underrepresented in leadership positions and spaces. In Kenya, few women overcame the odds to become County Governors. This created a lacuna for this study. This research analyzed the participation of women in politics at county governments in Kenya from the years 2013 to 2022. The research objectives were to examine the barriers faced by women governors and deputy governors, the achievements of women governors and deputy governors and the factors that enhanced their participation in politics. This study used a descriptive case study research design. The research employed qualitative methods to collect data. The target population was women governors and deputy governors between 2013-2022, county government staff that worked with women governors, and civil society organizations and non-governmental organizations that enhanced women’s political participation. The qualitative data was collected through interviews using interview guide. The study categorized and evaluated qualitative data from key informants, telephone conversations and Zoom sessions pertaining to the open-ended interview topics. The study found that women's participation in county-level politics as governors and deputy governors in Kenya from 2013 to 2022 was influenced by multiple factors. Capacity-building programs, mentorship initiatives, and legal frameworks such as the two-thirds gender rule were identified as key factors enhancing women's participation, with most of the respondents from Civil Society Organizations and Non-Governmental Organizations reporting involvement in such initiatives. However, significant barriers persisted, including social cultural and patriarchal norms, financial constraints, and gender-based violence, with most of the respondents identifying these as major challenges. The study revealed notable achievements by women governors and deputy governors, including policy formulation and development in healthcare and education, with most women leaders reporting the implementation of such policies. The study concludes that while progress has been made in women's political participation at the county level, persistent barriers hinder full representation and effectiveness. The study recommends that political parties strengthen their internal policies to promote women's participation in leadership positions, including setting clear quotas and providing financial support for women candidates. It suggests that Civil Society Organizations and development partners need to expand their capacity-building programs, focusing on practical skills such as campaign management, communication, and media engagement. The study also recommends developing comprehensive media strategies to enhance the visibility and positive portrayal of women in political leadership. Furthermore, it advises the active involvement of successful women governors and deputy governors in mentorship programs for aspiring women leaders, and the engagement of male allies in promoting women's political participation. Lastly, the study recommends further research to explore the long-term impact of women's participation in politics at the county level on development outcomes and governance quality