Busia County joined hands with KICTANet to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, marking 30 years since the Beijing Declaration, under the theme “Accelerate Action.” The event focused on addressing digital rights, combating online violence, and bridging the gender digital divide.
KICTANet CEO, Dr. Grace Githaiga, emphasised the organization’s commitment to creating safe and inclusive digital spaces.
“On this International Women’s Day, KICTANet celebrates the remarkable achievements and resilience of women in digital spaces across Kenya and beyond,” she stated.
“We honour women who have broken barriers in technology, policy development, and digital rights advocacy while acknowledging the persistent challenges of gender-based online violence, digital divides, and underrepresentation in ICT leadership. Equally important, we celebrate those who have not yet broken through these barriers but continue to persevere with quiet determination in their digital journeys.”
Dr. Githaiga further highlighted that empowering women and marginalised groups on safety on the internet greatly contributes to equality and empowerment online for socio-economic and political advancement.
“We invite all stakeholders to join us in building a more equitable digital future that harnesses the full potential of women’s participation and leadership in technology for sustainable development and social transformation.”
During the celebrations, Busia County leadership acknowledged the progress made in gender equity and women’s rights but emphasized the need for continued action.
Speakers called for the elimination of gender-based violence, investment in women entrepreneurs, and improved access to maternity health services. The impact of climate change on rural women, particularly in agriculture and water provision, was also highlighted. The speakers urged support for girls’ education, encouraged speaking out against violence, and promoted women in leadership roles.
Deputy Governor Arthur Papa Odera, representing Governor Dr. Paul Otuoma, addressed the residents, emphasising the county’s commitment to gender equality.
“It is with great pleasure that I join you in celebrating International Women’s Day. This is a moment for us to reflect on the progress we have made in gender equality and to renew our commitment to building a society where women and every girl can realize their full potential,” he said.
He further detailed the county’s efforts to combat gender-based violence.
“One of the ugliest and most unfortunate developments of our time is gender-based violence, and I might add sexual and gender-based violence. Busia County has not been spared, and the statistics are disturbing. However, we have taken decisive action on these matters,” he stated.
“My administration has implemented both legislative and administrative measures to curb gender-based violence. We have developed a comprehensive sexual and gender-based violence policy, which has already been passed and has been applied. The policy aims to address gender-related injustices, tackle the root cause and comprehensively manage the responses to the incidents.”
The Deputy Governor also highlighted the launch of a sexual and gender-based violence recovery centre at the Busia County Referral Hospital and a memorandum of understanding with the Collaborative Centre for Gender and Development to upscale the child care centre for cross-border women traders.
“As modern technology evolves and uses advice, it is crucial to enhance women’s organizations, and we are fostering a more inclusive and representative society,” he concluded.
“As we celebrate International Women, let us not commit to accelerating action. Let us continue and champion a future where every woman, every girl and beyond and thrive.”
The Busia IWD celebrations were a culmination of a weeklong monitoring and evaluation of the Strengthening Digital Communities project. The project is led by KICTANet with support from the UK Government’s Digital Access Programme through the British High Commission in Nairobi, in collaboration with the Government of Kenya, the County Governments of Busia and Mandera and various partners, aims to improve digital skills and access in the country.
