Women have made significant strides in the field of journalism, yet media ownership remains largely in the hands of men.

I’m neither a misandrist nor a feminist but I advocate for gender equality. I believe that women should have the same rights, opportunities and freedoms as men in all sectors including leadership, politics, personal choices and work.

All this is not about making women dominant over men but rather ensuring fairness and removing the barriers that are holding women back. To own a media house is not a joke – it requires a lot of capital to start and run it. That is why it is mostly owned by men because they have more access to capital and various investments.

Within the media organisations men are more likely to rise to executive positions while women often remain in reporting and editorial roles. Leadership is often associated with toughness, a trait that is linked to men.

As a nation, I think we should change the narrative that men are better suited for leadership and business and women for storytelling and being caregivers.

— Valary Birgen is a student at Laikipia University