Kenyan women leaders called for greater autonomy in reproductive health decisions during International Women’s Day commemorations in Kibera, Nairobi, on March 8. The event featured a campaign launch focused on empowering women through innovation, aligning with the government’s Affordable Universal Health Care agenda.
Esther Passaris, Nairobi County Woman Representative, joined UNFPA Executive Director Natalia Kanem in advocating for community-based safe spaces for women and girls. The initiative ties into the global theme of this year’s IWD: "Think equal, build smart, innovate for change."
The origins of International Women’s Day trace back to 1909 when the Socialist Party of America organized a women’s day in New York. The concept gained international traction in 1910, leading to mass participation across Europe by 1911.
A 2017 photo of women celebrating IWD accompanied the report, underscoring the longstanding advocacy for gender equality. The campaign aims to address systemic barriers while honoring the historical struggle for women’s rights.
