This archive report was first published on 4 May 2021.
On May 3, 2021, CS Farida Karoney appeared on NTV's Kigoda Chako segment, where she interacted with her former employee Salim Swaleh. The discussion centered around women leadership in Kenya.
Salim Swaleh, who previously worked under Karoney at Citizen TV, stated that women were taking up leadership positions at a rapid pace, citing the recent nomination of Justice Martha Koome as the Chief Justice.
"You have also taken up the senior-most role in the Ministry of Lands, which has for a long time been seen as reserved for men. With the number of women taking up the roles, wouldn't you say there is a new wave," he asked.
Responding to his question, Karoney expressed her disagreement, noting that gender equality in the post was not sufficiently addressed in the country.
"I do not know why you are saying we are taking up the leadership roles faster. 50% of the population in the country are women. As a matter of fact, we are behind schedule," she explained.
Karoney emphasized that senior roles in all sectors should reflect the population of women, including the corporate sector, media houses, cabinet, and parliament.
"Women work hard and have a sixth sense when it comes to leadership roles. So we should be represented in all sectors of the economy," she stated.
The two engaged in banter during the interview, with Swaleh expecting some professional criticism on how he handled the discussion.
