As the world observes this year's International Women's Day, it serves as an important moment for reflection on the strides made towards gender equality and inclusion, while also igniting a call for sustained action.
Despite witnessing an increase in the representation of women in elected public offices, achieving true gender parity remains elusive. Women continue to be underrepresented in decision-making roles, with systemic barriers propelled by patriarchy and misogyny persisting across various industries, leading to premature exits from the workforce.
One of the most pressing challenges facing women in Kenya today is gender-based violence, which remains alarmingly prevalent despite years of advocacy and awareness-raising efforts. From domestic violence and sexual assault to femicide, online violence against women and harmful traditional practices like female genital mutilation, women continue to bear the brunt of this pervasive human rights violation.
Though the current landscape may appear far from ideal, significant progress has indeed been achieved in elevating women's issues and advancing women’s rights. Amidst these challenges, the media has emerged as a powerful ally in championing women's empowerment and advocacy.
Through its multifaceted platforms encompassing radio, television, print and digital media, the media has played a crucial role in shaping public discourse, amplifying women's voices and catalysing legal and policy reforms in Kenya.
The media serves as a key driver of public awareness of critical issues affecting women in Kenya. Investigative journalism exposes cases of gender-based violence and discriminatory practices such as FGM, compelling conversations and demanding accountability from authorities as well as pushing for the implementation of the two-thirds gender rule in Kenya.
Documentaries and reports showcasing the struggles and triumphs of women leaders, activists and entrepreneurs have helped to spark dialogues on achieving gender equality. The intersectionality of gender with other factors such as ethnicity, socioeconomic status and disability further exacerbates disparities, leaving marginalised women even more vulnerable to exclusion and discrimination.
In addition to awareness creation, media plays a crucial role in empowering women by providing a platform for their voices and stories to be heard. Women in Kenya use various outlets such as television and panel interviews, talk shows, podcasts and online forums to tell their stories, highlight their manifestos and report on development issues. Female journalists and storytellers have shared their unique perspectives, experiences and voices, fostering a sense of community and empowering collective action.
By utilising tools like radio listening groups, allies of women’s rights such as men's engagement forums and organisations like Amwik have successfully implemented behavioural change initiatives. Additionally, media coverage of women inspiring progressive change across different fields challenges existing gender stereotypes.
Moreover, the media has been instrumental in advocating legal and policy changes that affect women's rights. Civil society has leveraged media platforms to campaign for legislative reforms on pertinent issues. Recently, civil society organisations in Kenya called for the expedited resolution of GBV cases and the establishment of special GBV courts within the Judiciary and Policare in police stations.
Investigative reporting has shed light on areas needing reform and holds authorities accountable for upholding women's rights. For example, documentaries focusing on the challenges faced by teenage mothers during the Covid-19 pandemic have brought attention and sparked conversations at the national level, attracting the attention of key stakeholders in education and health.
Community media stations have been critical tools used to advance women's participation in grassroots politics. These stations have raised awareness, facilitated local dialogues on critical women's rights issues, and connected women to essential resources.
In the digital realm, social media platforms have emerged as powerful tools for women to connect, share experiences, organise movements and amplify their voices on a global scale. The #MeToo movement, for instance, had a profound global impact, shedding light on the prevalence of sexual harassment across various divides.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, its role in promoting inclusion for women remains crucial.
Acting executive director, Association of Media Women in Kenya
