Every 8th of March, International Women’s Day (IWD) serves as a reminder to honor women's accomplishments across all spectrums, including their diverse backgrounds in ethnicity, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, culture, and socioeconomic status. This year's theme, "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress," not only seeks to empower women economically but also envisions a world free from biases, stereotypes, and discrimination. As we reflect on history, it's essential to remember the significant contributions of trans women in Kenya, who have played crucial roles in shaping movements for inclusion, empowerment of women and girls and addressing socioeconomic challenges.
One notable figure in the women 's rights movement is the late Professor Wangare Muta Maathai, an environmental and political activist whose impact on the feminist movement in Kenya remains profound. She believed in the pivotal role of women as agents of change for the environment and tirelessly advocated for equal opportunities for women employees. Through her Green Belt Movement (GBM), she mobilized 100,000 women activists, established 600 community networks, operated 6000 nurseries, and planted 30 million trees to combat environmental degradation.
Honorable Charity Ngilu and Hon. Phoebe Asiyu also made significant strides in Parliament by pushing for the implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action in 1996 and introducing the first Affirmative Action in 1997, respectively. While these motions didn't pass, they laid the groundwork for future female leaders to advocate for increased representation in politics.
Another trailblazer, Hon. Lady Njoki Ndung'u, challenged the male-dominated narrative in the judiciary and made substantial contributions during her political career, including her involvement in the formulation of the Sexual Offenses Act of 2006. Her dedication continues to inspire young girls and women across Kenya.
In the realm of transgender rights advocacy, historical notable figures like Ms. Audrey Mbugua,
Audrey Mbugua During a Press Conference
Alesandra Ogeta, Samantha King’ori, and Seanny Odero among many others have been pivotal in establishing the transgender movement in Kenya. Their efforts laid the foundation for organizations like Jinsiangu and the National Trans* Advocacy Movement, focusing on championing the rights of trans women and addressing systemic challenges they face.
Despite these advancements, women, including trans women, continue to battle social injustices such as domestic violence, poverty, transphobia, discrimination, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), and child marriage. Such battles are highlighted in a recent nationwide march on January 27th, 2024, aimed at ending femicide underscores the ongoing struggle against gender-based violence in Kenya.
Jinsiangu Banner On Display During Femicide March in February 2024
As we commemorate International Women’s Day in 2024, let us not only celebrate women's achievements but also honor those who have lost their lives in the fight against economic disempowerment and femicide. Their legacies remind us of the ongoing work needed to create a more equitable and inclusive society for all women in Kenya, including trans women.