State department wins top USAWA award for gender and inclusion excellence

Ms Catherine Njoroge Director Communication Ministry of Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes with CS Hannah Cheptumo. [Courtesy]

The State Department for Public Service and Human Capital Development has been recognised for its exemplary work in advancing gender equality and social inclusion during the 2025 edition of the USAWA Awards, held at Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi.

The awards, organised by the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), also marked the official launch of the Commission's Fourth Strategic Plan (2025-2029).

Presiding over the event, Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, and Children Services, Hanna Wendot Cheptumo, emphasised that equality is a constitutional right enshrined in Article 27 of the Constitution, which guarantees equal protection and benefit of the law for all citizens.

"Equality is not a favour-it is a right," said the CS, describing the NGEC as a critical institution that guides the country's commitment to equality and non-discrimination.

The CS also announced the completion of a National Men's Engagement and Inclusion Strategy, noting that while men and boys play a collaborative role in advancing gender equality, they also face unique challenges that must be addressed.

Receiving the award on behalf of the State Department, Ms. Catherine Njoroge, Director of Information, noted that the recognition underscores the department's continued efforts to embed inclusivity in public service.

The award recognised the department's outstanding performance in promoting Gender and Social Inclusion throughout 2024, particularly its initiatives targeting Special Interest Groups (SIGs) including women, youth, persons with disabilities (PWDs), older persons, children, and other marginalised communities.

The USAWA Awards, established by NGEC, aim to spotlight institutions that have gone beyond compliance to demonstrate a strong, measurable commitment to gender mainstreaming and non-discrimination.

The ceremony brought together stakeholders from across government, civil society, and development partners, reinforcing a shared commitment to advancing inclusive governance and equality for all.