Turkana puts more women in key governance positions

An increasing number of women is taking up key positions in governance in Turkana County, with Governor Josephat Nanok making new appointments last week.

In a society that has long remained patriarchal, it is a big win for women, as the administration considers them in the administrative and political positions.

In Mr Nanok’s latest appointments, Phoebe Kaaman will be Advisor on Partnership, Gender and Children’s Affairs, Elizabeth Limagur Director for Governor’s press service and Rebecca Lowoya Advisor on Political and Intergovernmental Relations.

They will join other women leaders such as the County Executive Committee (CEC) member for Health, Jane Ajele.

Women locally have expressed confidence in the performance of their female folk, and urged others to further break the proverbial glass ceiling.

“Under her stewardship, Ms Ajele has influenced speedy construction and equipping of health centers in once-forgotten, far-flung villages in Kainuk, Kapedo and Lomelo regions. More women now deliver in hospitals,” said Bethsheba Ekale, a Lodwar town resident.

Rosemary Nchinyei was recently made Chief Officer for Roads and Transport and also acting as the Chief Officer for Public Works.

“My responsibility will now be to ensure damaged roads are repaired to ensure uninterrupted movement of goods and services,” Ms Nchinyei said.

Other women in senior positions are Jennifer Nawoi Long’or (County Lands Executive) and Trade, Gender and Youth Affairs’ Esther Lokiyo Lokwei.

Turkana Women Rep Joyce Emanikor commended Nanok for empowering women.

She urged women in leadership to inject new energies and vigour to achieve outstanding performance.