Former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta has unveiled an initiative aimed at empowering women leaders across the country.
In a statement by the Office of the Fourth President sent to Kenyans.co.ke on Saturday, April 6, it was noted that her inaugural project, the Beyond Zero Initiative, had partnered with the Kenya School of Government to form an institute that will empower women leaders.
The Margeret Kenyatta Institute will focus on the promotion of health, social justice, gender equality and economic empowerment.
"The establishment of the MKI and initiatives such as the Leadership Program for County Social Transformation highlight the broader recognition of women's crucial role in driving economic growth and social progress," read the statement in part.
As its pilot programme, select county First Ladies were undertaken through a curriculum to empower them better in their roles.
The First Ladies were picked from Bomet, Narok, Kisumu, Kilifi, Siaya, Kakamega, Elgeyo Marakwet, Migori and West Pokot.
"During the week-long event, the First Ladies were introduced to a range of strategies and initiatives to promote social change in their respective counties.
"The discussions revolved around topics such as the interface between government and politics, gender and social development, legacy building for enduring impact, championing causes for social transformation, philanthropy and resource mobilization, and partnerships, read the statement in part.
Among notable women leaders who were picked to empower the women leaders were Lady Justice Njoki Ndungu, former First Lady of Ekiti State Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, Nicole Brzeski and Cora Neumann of the Global First Ladies Association among others.
On her part, Margaret Kenyatta underpinned the importance of the programme while acknowledging the impact the spouses of the governors have in their respective counties.
"I hope that the case studies and experiential learning reflect the opportunities to help you overcome challenges and promote continuous engagement in the future," she stated.
During her tenure as the First Lady, she focused on health with a key focus on maternal health. The initiative won accolades across the globe given that she also organised marathons to raise funds and awareness for the campaigns.
