The nominee for Chairperson of the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), Rehema Jaldesa, has outlined what she will seek to achieve during her tenure if approved.

Jaldesa made the promise when she appeared at Parliament for her vetting, and one of the missions she would want to achieve is restoring the commission’s influence and effectiveness.

“If appointed as Chairperson of the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), I will restore its lost glory,” Jaldesa said when she appeared before the Committee on Social Protection on Friday, November 22, 2024.

The nominee said she is a passionate advocate against gender-based discrimination and highlighted her tenure as Isiolo County Women Representative (2017–2022) as well as other numerous engagements as evidence of her commitment to gender equality.

The committee members pressed the former legislator to explain what she would do in support of the country’s goal to end gender-based violence by 2026.

Proposals

She proposed a multi-sectoral approach involving government agencies, civil society, and grassroots communities and also emphasised the creation of operational gender desks and fostering partnerships with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to curb gender violence.

Jaldesa also pledged to enhance the commission’s visibility and effectiveness by fostering resource mobilization and partnerships.

“I have lived through gender-related challenges in my own life. My passion, combined with my professional experience, positions me as the best candidate to lead the Commission. The Commission must play its rightful role in holding all sectors accountable for ending these vices,” she said.

Michael Nzomo, who has been nominated as a member of the commission, was also vetted. On his part, Nzomo highlighted the need for inclusive development and inclusive learning and equity.

He also touched on the issues of the boy child, who is said to have been neglected at the expense of the girl child.

“We must advocate for the inclusion of boys and men at pivotal stages of their lives, such as during cultural practices including circumcision and in mainstream sectors such as education, in order to foster a balanced society,” Nzomo said.

He cited his extensive experience, saying it would play a leading role in enhancing NGEC’s research strategies and operations. 

“I will ensure NGEC’s approach to collaborations is strengthened and also hold the government accountable in support of gender laws and regulations,” he said.

The committee is expected to table its report on the vetting process in the National Assembly on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. The committee is chaired by Thika Town Member of Parliament Alice Ng’ang’a.