Former Ijara Member of Parliament Sophia Abdi has challenged women across Kenya to actively seek elective leadership positions.
Mrs. Abdi said greater female representation in decision-making would lead to a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities.
She urged women to overcome fear and change their mindset about contesting for senior political offices such as governor, senator and member of the county assembly.
“We must also change our mindsets. Do not fear seeking higher offices. I encourage more women to vie for positions as governors, senators and members of county assemblies.”
She emphasized that women need to be present where key decisions are made if they are to influence policies and resource allocation.
“We need more women where decisions are made, where the cake is divided and where resources are shared. If you are not at the table, nobody is going to speak for you,” said the first elected woman legislator in Northern Kenya.
Mrs. Abdi also encouraged young people, women and persons with disabilities to seize available opportunities to participate in leadership and governance.
“You have a chance now—the youth, women and persons with disabilities—to make your voices heard,” she added.
The former legislator commended Kenya’s First Lady, Rachel Ruto, for initiatives aimed at empowering women and strengthening families.
The former lawmaker said the First Lady’s programmes continue to promote education, improve livelihoods and enhance the economic empowerment of women across the country.
“Their commitment affirms a simple truth: investing in women is investing in Kenya’s future,” Sophia reiterated.
She said women’s empowerment initiatives have benefited many women by helping them build successful businesses and create wealth.
“If you go to those programmes where those investments have been made, you will see women billionaires,” she said.
Mrs. Abdi was the keynote speaker during the Devolution Sensitisation Week, where leaders emphasized inclusive governance, citizen participation and the role of devolution in expanding opportunities for all Kenyans, particularly women, youth and persons with disabilities.
The 4th Devolution Sensitisation Week (DSW 2026) was held in Garissa Township under the theme, “Devolution for Better Health, Empowered Communities.” The symposium provided citizens with an opportunity to interact with leaders, seek clarity on devolution and celebrate the milestones achieved by county governments.
The conference aimed to bring devolution closer to the people through accessible services, citizen engagement and accountability.
The week-long event brought together the two levels of government, Parliament, development partners and citizens in a shared commitment to strengthen devolution and improve service delivery.
