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At the third installment of the What Women Want Summit, Martha Karua voiced her support for gender equity.
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She refuted the idea that women are fundamentally their own worst foes and encouraged unity among women along with mutual responsibility.
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Karua likewise announced her candidacy for president, motivating those present with her ideas for advancing gender equality.
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In an interview with LIFEHACK.co.ke, event organizer Pinky Ghelani emphasized the importance of more profound discussions in educational institutions and family settings to tackle problems such as femicide.
Martha Karua, the leader of the People’s Liberation Party (PLP), passionately argued for the necessity of women’s empowerment initiatives when she spoke at the What Women Want Summit, which took place at the Trademark Hotel in Nairobi.
This year’s summit, initiated by Pinky Ghelani, celebrated its third iteration, assembling prominent women from different industries over the course of three days dedicated to empowerment, networking, and discussions.
The much-anticipated event commenced on Friday, March 21, featuring a vibrant gala dinner led by Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo.
During the span of three days, attendees took part in various discussions, workshops, and networking events focused on enhancing women’s rights, leadership roles, and social influence.
Martha Karua’s compelling statement about empowering women
When the summit ended on Sunday, March 23, Karua stepped forward to highlight that women’s empowerment should be recognized as an essential right rather than perceived as a danger to boys or men.
She asserted that recognizing our humanity should not be an afterthought but a fundamental right. We did not arrive coincidentally; we merit equal standing with our male counterparts. Keep in mind, we are the mothers of these men—yes, even those boastful Members of Parliament. Regardless of gender, we are the mothers of exceptional individuals. Thus, our significance confirms that we hold considerable worth ourselves.
Karua encouraged society to move past the idea that enhancing women’s rights comes at the expense of men, highlighting that equality actually enriches all individuals.
Is the notion that women are their own worst enemies a valid one?
Karua likewise addressed the contentious belief that females frequently undermine themselves more than others do.
She recognized that, similar to men, some women might also discourage or undercut others.
Nevertheless, she contended that this should not detract from the many women who encourage and help each other.
Some women undermine and harm their female counterparts. When a woman is observed belittling another woman, she should be confronted. Despite potential denials, this confrontation can prompt action. Conversely, women who support and uplift other women deserve recognition to inspire others.
I’ve learned this through my experience during my initial political campaign. The harsh comments directed at me came predominantly from men, whereas women often took on surrogate roles. It’s said that ‘women are each other’s toughest competitors,’ which reflects this narrative. We should recognize both male and female individuals who act poorly; conversely, we ought to acknowledge those who excel positively,” she stated firmly.
How women drive transformation
Karua emphasized that since women represent the biggest group within the nation, they possess the potential to catalyze substantial social transformation.
“All these elected leaders are female representatives since 51% of the voters are women. Even William Ruto represents women,” she stated.
She motivated women to come together, provide mutual backing, and assume leadership positions to champion policies that emphasize gender equality.
With a daring announcement that left participants astounded, Karua revealed her intention to run for president.
The influence of Pinky Ghelani at the What Women Want Summit
Speaking to
LIFEHACK.co.ke
The founder of the summit, Pinky Ghelani, disclosed that the gathering had drawn more than 3,000 participants, marking the largest attendance since the event began.
She conveyed her enthusiasm regarding the increasing influence of the summit and how it helps mold discussions around women’s empowerment.
Ghelani likewise tackled the critical matter of femicide in Kenya, emphasizing the necessity for a more preemptive strategy to combat gender-based violence.
“We have barely scratched the surface. Femicide isn’t a recent issue; it’s been around for a long time. To combat this, we must initiate these discussions both in educational institutions and within families. We need to speak with our boys and emphasize that young girls aren’t punching bags, regardless of their feelings of frustration or anger,” she implored.