Vihiga: The Department of Gender, Culture, Youth and Sports in Vihiga County convened a one-day workshop focused on the sensitization, policy review, and technical validation of the draft Gender Mainstreaming Policy.
According to Kenya News Agency, the draft Policy seeks to strengthen inclusive governance and promote gender-responsive development by scrutinizing its framework. Stakeholders deliberated on various aspects, including the development process of the Gender Mainstreaming Policy, validation of its objectives and strategies, as well as exploring the implementation framework. It also involved identifying policy gaps and emerging issues, and validating monitoring and evaluation indicators along with action plans.
Themed ‘Towards a Gender Responsive Vihiga,’ the forum was officially opened by Dr. Ruth Agesa and attracted participants from the County Executive, Vihiga County Assembly, development partners, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and other non-state actors. Dr. Agesa emphasized the significance of inclusive and gender-responsive policies in ensuring equitable access to opportunities and services for all residents of Vihiga County.
The session marked a significant milestone in the County’s efforts to institutionalize gender mainstreaming and strengthen responsive governance structures that address the needs of women, men, youths, and vulnerable groups in society.
In a related development, the Chief Officer for Sports, Youth, Gender and Culture in Vihiga County, Sylvester Kaane, has invited youths across the County to participate in the 2026 Vihiga County Youth Convention, scheduled for 30th May 2026 at Kaimosi Friends National Polytechnic. Ahead of this main event, a Youth Talent Audition will be held on 23rd May 2026 at Keveye Vocational Polytechnic to identify and showcase young talents from across the County. Mr. Kaane encouraged the youth to turn up in large numbers, register for the events, and seize the opportunities available through the convention, noting that the initiative seeks to empower young people through engagement, innovation, talent promotion, and networking opportunities.
