Dr. Ngina: Youth, Passion, and Purpose at the Helm of NGEC

In a historic ceremony at the Supreme Court of Kenya, Dr. Purity Ngina was sworn in as the youngest Commission Secretary and CEO among constitutional commissions and independent offices. Her appointment symbolizes the National Gender and Equality Commission's (NGEC) dedication to empowering young leaders.

Dr. Ngina expressed gratitude to Hon. Justice Martha Koome and the judiciary for their unwavering commitment to justice in Kenya. She acknowledged the strides made by NGEC since its inception in 2012 under the leadership of Dr. Joyce Mutinda, commending the Commission's relentless pursuit of gender equality and social justice.

Addressing the nation's pressing challenges, Dr. Ngina highlighted the severe droughts, floods, and youth protests, emphasizing the critical need for accountability and diligent service. Despite the Commission’s budgetary constraints, with funding peaking at only Ksh. 450 million annually against the required Ksh. 800 million over the past 5 years, she affirmed her commitment to a robust resource mobilization strategy. This strategy will seek partnerships with national and international development partners, explore public-private collaborations, and advocate for increased allocations from the National Treasury.

Dr. Ngina underscored the importance of evidence-based decision-making, vowing to strengthen data collection mechanisms and collaborate with key institutions to maintain a real-time database on affirmative action laws and policies.

Despite financial challenges, Dr. Ngina expressed unwavering confidence in the innovative and passionate minds within the NGEC Secretariat. She pledged to advocate for policies addressing gender disparities, enhance the Commission's capacity to deliver on its mandate, and ensure transparency and accountability in all operations.

She called on the National Government, National Assembly, and other partners to join forces with NGEC in building a more equitable and inclusive Kenya.