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MOMBASA, April 6, 2024: Former First Lady of Kenya, H.E. Margaret Kenyatta, presided over the closing ceremony of the inaugural Leadership Program for County Social Transformation held at the Sarova Whitesands Hotel in Mombasa County.
The Beyond Zero Initiative has partnered with the Kenya School of Government (KSG), the oldest public sector training institute in the country, 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.
In her address to the first cohorts of the program, Mrs. Kenyatta noted that the vision, mission, and mandate of the Institute, which is embedded in the Kenya School of Government’s core mandate, is to transform society through services and programs that promote: Social Justice, Gender Equality, Wellness and Health, and Empowerment.
The caucus gathered County First Ladies from Kilifi, Elgeyo Marakwet, Migori, West Pokot, Kakamega, Narok, Siaya, and Bomet to engage in strategic discussions and initiatives focused on promoting social change at the grassroots level. H.E. Margaret Kenyatta extended her gratitude to the participating County First Ladies for their involvement in the event.
“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 added.
The Kenya School of Government collaborated with the Beyond Zero Initiative to craft the Leadership Program curriculum. Initiatives such as the Leadership Program for County Social Transformation highlight the increasing recognition of the essential role women play in fostering both economic development and social advancement.
“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 remarked.
During the week-long event, 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 discussions revolved around topics such as the Interface between Government and Politics, Gender and Social Development, Legacy Building for Enduring Impact, Championing Causes for Social Transformation, Philanthropy and Resource Mobilization, and Partnerships.
With confidence, 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.
Also present at the ceremony were: Chairperson, Kenya School of Government, Hon. Rtd. Justice Charles Nyachae, Lynette Otwori, Acting Director of MKI, and senior administrative officials from KSG.