REMARKS BY BETTY SUNGURA, MBS, COMMISSION SECRETARY/CEO NATIONAL GENDER AND EQUALITY COMMISSION DURING THE COMMEMORATION OF THE WORLD POPULATION DAY 2023 AT THE RADISSON BLU HOTEL, UPPERHILL NAIROBI ON JULY 11, 2023

The Chief Guest, James Muhati Principal Secretary, State Department for Economic Planning
Representative of the Principal Secretary, State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action
Dr. Mohamed Sheikh, Director General National Council for Population Development
Dr. Abiodun Oyeyipo, UNFPA Country Deputy Representative
Dr. Joan Oracha, Country Director, MSK
Distinguished Guests
Ladies and Gentlemen

Today, I stand in front of all of you to celebrate an important occasion – World Population Day. On behalf of the National Gender and Equality Commission, I want to convey my heartfelt appreciation to the National Council for Population and Development (NCPD) for organizing this incredible event. World Population Day serves as a global reminder of the significant issues that our world is confronted with as a population. As we gather here today, we must recognize that our world is incessantly evolving. With each passing day, the number of people on this planet continues to increase, presenting us with both advantageous opportunities and complex challenges that demand our collective attention, intelligence, and action.

Ladies and Gentlemen

Understanding population data has a vital role in shaping development plans based on evidence, formulating policies effectively, and conducting research diligently. Kenya has long recognized the significance of population data in guiding our nation’s progress. Through initiatives such as the Kenya Population and Housing Census, we have obtained valuable insights into the male and female population distribution within our country. The information gleaned from this census has been instrumental in guiding NGEC’s efforts to identify areas for intervention and prioritize resources accordingly.

Despite making up nearly half of the world’s population, women and girls have often been overlooked in population discussions. Because of this neglect, their rights are violated and their education, professional rights and leadership positions are hindered. This pervasive injustice not only limits their autonomy and decision-making capacity but also leads to violence, harmful behavior and preventable maternal death. Shockingly, every two minutes, a woman loses her life due to pregnancy or childbirth. This reality is a stark reminder that we cannot afford to ignore the needs and well-being of women and girls any longer.

Ladies and Gentlemen

We stand at a critical time, where advancing gender equality is no longer an option but a necessity. Gender equality is not just about redressing the balance; It is about creating a stronger, more equitable and sustainable world. Women and girls’ creativity, intelligence, resources and power are essential in addressing the myriad challenges that today range from climate change to conflict. Their ideas, insights and contributions are essential to finding effective solutions that can transform our societies and secure our future.

Ladies and Gentlemen

Gender equality is not just a women’s issue. It is a human rights issue, an economic issue, and a social issue. When women and girls are denied their rights, it holds back entire societies. According to the 2019 Kenya Population and Housing Census Kenya had a total population of 47.6 million of which males were 23.6 million, 24.01 million were females with intersex being 1,519. The population is projected to reach 51.5 million in 2023. In Kenya, despite women making up slightly over 50% of the population, they only hold about 23% of seats in Parliament. According to the recently released report of the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey, more men own an asset such as a house and land. Also, more women earn less than men with 71% of married women earning less than their husband or partner 12 months before the survey. The survey also showed that 6% of women aged 15-49 years had no formal education compared to men of the same age at 3%. These are just but a few examples of the disparities, which continue to persist between men and women. This gender inequality has several negative consequences, including increased poverty, poorer health outcomes, less education, less political participation and decision-making processes.

Ladies and gentlemen

The intersectionality between the roles of NCPD and NGEC is undeniable. Both organizations are committed to advancing gender equality and empowering women in Kenya. Today, I want to reiterate our pledge to continue collaborating closely with NCPD. Together, we can harness the power of gender equality to unlock Kenya’s infinite possibilities.

In closing,

I commend the NCPD for leading the commemoration of World Population Day in Kenya and selecting a theme that aligns better with our mutual objectives. Let us capitalize on this moment to reaffirm our dedication to achieving gender equality and eradicating discrimination. By collaborating harmoniously, we can forge a future wherein every individual has an equal opportunity to flourish and make valuable contributions towards Kenya’s progress.

Thank you.