Margaret Kenyatta Joins Forces With Gov't Institution To Launch New Initiative

Former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta has partnered with the Kenya School of Government (KSG) to form an institute to empower women across the country.

In a statement by the Office of the Fourth President on Saturday, April 6, the former First Lady’s Beyond Zero Initiative has partnered with KSG to establish the Margaret Kenyatta Institute (MKI).

“The establishment of the MKI and initiatives such as the Leadership Program for County Social Transformation highlight the broader recognition of women's crucial role in driving economic growth and social progress,” read the statement in part.

Addressing the first cohorts of the program on Saturday Margaret noted that the vision, mission, and mandate of the institute is to transform society through services and programs that promote Social Justice, Gender Equality, Wellness and Health, and Empowerment.

"I thank you for being the first cohort of this inaugural program which recognizes the unique leadership roles you play in your counties as spouses of Governors. We applaud you for your diverse aspirations, in what may sometimes be uncharted paths or challenging roles you play to make a difference in your communities," she stated.

The first cohort is County First Ladies from Bomet, Narok, Kisumu, Kilifi, Siaya, Kakamega, Elgeyo Marakwet, Migori, and West Pokot.

The First Ladies were introduced to a range of strategies and initiatives to promote social change in their respective counties.

Notable speakers included Lady Justice Njoki Ndungu, H.E. Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, former First Lady of Ekiti State, Nigeria, Nicole Brzeski and Cora Neumann of the Global First Ladies Association, Lucy Mathenge from UN Women, and Jacqueline Wambua from ROCHE E.A, among others.

The former First Lady expressed her belief that this training will empower County First Ladies to champion noble causes in their respective regions, contributing to a brighter future for all citizens of Kenya.

"I hope that the case studies and experiential learning reflect the opportunities to help you overcome challenges and promote continuous engagement in the future," Mrs. Kenyatta added.