Former Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo has called on women in leadership to move beyond symbolic representation and focus on delivering measurable impact across institutions and communities.

Speaking during the 2nd Instinct Women Conference & Awards held on February 26-27 at Emara Ole-Sereni Hotel in Nairobi, Odhiambo challenged African women leaders to use their influence to drive systemic change.

The event, themed “Women Who Move Nations: Leadership, Legacy & Impact,” brought together women leaders from across the continent, including entrepreneurs, executives, policymakers, public servants and youth leaders.

In her remarks, Odhiambo said women are increasingly shaping Africa’s governance and development landscape.

“Africa today is raising and being shaped by its daughters in positions of influence, both regionally and globally,” she stated. “Our continental progress bears the fingerprints of women’s leadership, with democratic gains increasingly experienced not as abstractions, but as lived rights held and defended.”

From presence to progress

Odhiambo noted that while women’s representation in leadership spaces continues to grow, it must translate into tangible change.

“But women’s leadership must do more than occupy space. It must move,” she said. “It must translate instinct into impact, courage into systems and presence into progress. Leadership is not about dominance; it is about direction.”

She emphasised the importance of strengthening systems and institutions rather than relying solely on individual presence, insisting that leadership must be anchored in service and guided by clear values that promote justice and accountability.

The conference featured panel discussions, networking sessions and awards recognising women making contributions in various sectors, including governance, business and innovation.

Call for ethical and accountable leadership

Drawing from her experience in legal practice and professional leadership, Odhiambo highlighted the need for integrity in public life. She called for cultivating a new generation of women leaders who prioritise “integrity over influence, service over survival and legacy over applause.”

She urged leaders to mentor others, uphold ethical standards and challenge misuse of power where it arises. According to Odhiambo, leadership must be rooted in justice and responsibility.

Her address comes amid broader efforts across Africa to enhance women’s participation in governance and decision-making.

The conference reinforced calls for leadership that builds sustainable systems and inclusive growth, as stakeholders continue to advocate for gender equity and institutional reforms.