Hon. Harriette Chiggai, President William Ruto’s Advisor on Women Rights, has called for bold steps to empower Kenyan women teachers and eliminate barriers hindering their success.
Speaking during the Kenya Women Teachers Conference and Exhibition at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development, Chiggai outlined the critical role of women educators while urging systemic reforms to address gender-based discrimination, workplace harassment, and inequities in leadership opportunities.
Harriet Chiggai during a past media presser. Photo: The Star Source: Facebook
President William Ruto’s advisor on women rights Hon. Harriette Chiggai. Photo: Harriette Chiggai/XUnder the theme “Transformative Empowerment: Breaking Barriers and Bridging Gaps for Women Educators in the 21st Century,” Chiggai emphasised that women teachers are the backbone of Kenya’s education system.
However, she lamented the persistent challenges they face, including low pay, limited resources, and socio-cultural barriers that impede career progression.
“Women educators are more than teachers—they are role models and catalysts for change,” she said. “Yet, they continue to face unequal pay, workplace harassment, and inadequate support systems. These barriers must be dismantled for women to thrive and transform education.”
President William Ruto’s advisor Harriet Chiggai. Photo: Harriet Chiggai Source: Facebook
Chiggai highlighted the government’s initiatives, such as the Unpaid Care Work Bill, designed to support women balancing work and family responsibilities.
She also commended President Ruto’s commitment to tackling gender-based violence (GBV) through the Safe Homes Safe Spaces initiative, funded with Ksh 100 million.
As the nation prepares to mark the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV starting 25th November, Chiggai called on teachers to champion gender equality in schools and promote safe learning environments.
“Let us work together to end GBV and create an education system where women educators can lead, innovate, and inspire,” she urged.
The conference brought together top officials from the Kenya Women Teachers Association (KEWOTA) and education leaders to chart a path toward a more inclusive and equitable education landscape.
