Pioneering women MPs honoured

Kenya’s first female Member of Parliament Grace Onyango and former Karachuonyo MP Phoebe Asiyo have been recognised in this year’s Trailblazer Awards.

The duo was honoured by the government for their outstanding contributions in promoting gender equality and women empowerment in the country.

Asiyo and Onyango were recognised yesterday at ceremonies presided over by Public Service and Gender Cabinet Secretary Margaret Kobia at their homes in Homa Bay and Kisumu counties respectively.

Onyango was the first woman to be elected Member of Parliament in 1969. She was also the first woman to be elected mayor of Kisumu in 1967.

Asiyo received recognition for working tirelessly in pushing for the empowerment of women and girls.

Affirmative action

She was the first President of Maendeleo ya Wanawake Organisation and founder and chair of Women’s Political Caucus.

The former legislator has been on the fore front advocating for women’s representation in leadership positions especially elective seats.

Asiyo was also honoured for sponsoring the Affirmative Action Bill in Parliament in 1997 which sought to increase the number of women in Parliament by 18, at least two from each province.

The veteran politician is the author of the book It is Possible.

Kobia, who graced the event on behalf of President Uhuru Kenyatta, lauded the two leaders for their immense contribution in the country’s leadership spheres.

The CS was flanked by Rangwe MP Lilian Gogo, Karachuonyo MP Adipo Okume and his Kabondo Kasipul counterpart Eve Obara in presenting Asiyo with various recognition awards from the State at her home in Wikondiek Village, Karachuonyo.

Kobia said the women’s efforts enabled the country to make great strides in women empowerment.

“The contributions of these eminent women have shaped Kenya’s history in gender equality. As a country, we remain indebted to them for charting a path towards social justice, equality and prosperity for all,” Kobia said.

Asiyo urged Kenyans to trust women with leadership,  saying many women had demonstrated sound leadership qualities.

“Those seeking elective positions should be given conducive environment to pursue their ambitions,” Asiyo said.

The honour came ahead of the annual Trailblazer Awards and Recognition Programme which is expected to be held during International Women’s Day on March 8.

Trailblazer awards recognise women who have excelled in fighting for gender equality and empowerment of women.