Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has been named as the political trailblazer of the year at the East African Women of Excellence Awards.
Waiguru was awarded for her exceptional achievements in leadership and as a woman of many firsts at the awards gala dinner held in Nairobi.
She was also honored for excelling in the political field, her effort to bring change in the country and also work to inspire and empower women to rise to leadership positions.
The Kirinyaga Governor was nominated alongside Governors Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay) and Wavinya Ndeti (Machakos), MPs; Neisula Lesuuda, Gladys Boss, Esther Passaris and Beatrice Elachi.
Speaking after receiving the award, Waiguru thanked the organisers and Kenyans for having faith in her.
She termed the recognition an invitation for her to continue supporting, uplifting and empowering women in every corner of the globe.”
“Let me emphasise to everyone present here that each of us holds a responsibility. Whether big or small, in our own little spaces, our contributions matter in addressing the challenges we face," Waiguru said.
"It is through collective effort and individual commitment that we can truly make a difference. Let us not underestimate the power of our actions and let us stand together in pursuit of progress and equality,” Waiguru said.
She added that more needs to be done in addressing the ongoing challenges hindering women's progress in the society among them reproductive health issues.
Waiguru noted that the death of Njambi Koikai, an endometriosis warrior, should serve as a wake-up call to the urgency of implementing concrete measures to improve women's access to quality reproductive healthcare.
“This includes advocating for better healthcare policies, increasing funding for women's health initiatives, and ensuring that women have the necessary support and resources to make informed decisions about their bodies.”
Christ Is the Answer Ministries (CITAM) Deputy Bishop Rev. Justus Mugambi said the award seeks to honor top women in corporate and business across East Africa who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact on their respective industries.
Rev Mugambi said the inaugural awards sets precedence for future generations where accomplishments of women are valued and will create a ripple effect that inspires more women to pursue excellence.
“We will continue to support, recognise and empower women so that they can increasingly take up leadership roles and other activities that will help create a better world,” he said.
During the awards, Cabinet Secretary for Trade and Investment Rebecca Miano was named the Public Service leader of the year in recognition of her public administration work.
Njeri Njomo won the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Year award, Woman of Impact award went to Pastor Esther Obasi-Ike while Sarah Kabu bagged the Entrepreneur of the Year award among other winners.
