Naisula Lesuuda, senator and ex-journalist: 'I'm no flower girl'

In a world of aggressive and resilient women like yourself, what does it take for women to go for what they want without corrupting the idea behind women empowerment?

A woman doesn’t have to lose touch with her female attributes such as being caring and nurturing. You still look good and wear your skirts but even as you are feminine, that does not prevent you from following your dreams.

Do you think Kenyan women have anything to celebrate in regards to law?

Yes. We always tend to see the negative around us and rarely see the good. The number of women in Parliament has increased and at least now we can hear women voices.

Women in the Senate have been mocked as ‘flower girls’…don’t you think you need to prove otherwise?

Some male leaders use the word when women engage in discussions to put us down. What they need to understand is women too are entitled to opinions. If anything, we are flower girls because we are beautiful but the word should not be used derogatorily. Inasmuch as we have affirmative action, I am hoping the law is fully implemented and women are given what is rightfully theirs. We appreciate the efforts made by some men but there are others who still think a woman cannot achieve anything without sleeping her way to it.

Last year, word went round that you have a fling with the Deputy President, no wonder you were among the ‘chosen few’ who accompanied him in the Hustler’s Jet...

I always travel with different people and that time it happened to be with honourable Ruto and I did it in my capacity as a Senator together with other dignitaries. There were controversies surrounding the jet story and some people took advantage to blow things out of proportion. I have never had an affair with the Deputy President and you can take that to the bank.

How do you still get the courage to hold your head high amid such controversies?

Not just in Kenya but the world over, women in high seats and who interact with men are viewed negatively. I appreciate that I can never control what people say, think or spread, that is why it is called a rumour.

You run a peace caravan... How did that interest develop?

When I was a journalist, covering war stories affected me and opened my eyes. I had told enough of such stories and realised time had come for me to tell a new story – peace and prosperity.

You have also been accused of fueling conflicts in some areas in Samburu … what does the Naisula Lesuuda Foundation stand for?

I rally professionals to talk to people in pastoral communities to embrace peace. I also view education as a unifying factor, so we get bursaries and scholarships for the youth. I believe in doing my part, I will change the country and make it a better place for all. I hold motivational talks across the country on women empowerment.

Do you plan to go back to journalism?

If need be, yes but I would also love to be a diplomat but life will take its course. I realised that if I am to serve my community outside the borders, then I should at first do it within. I am pursuing a Masters degree in Public Policy and Administration at Kenyatta University.

Are you seeing anyone special?

Yes and we totally understand the importance of keeping our private life private. It has worked for us perfectly and we intend to keep it that way.

What would legacy do you want to establish?

If I am not able to do anything for the young people and women of my nation, my story and journey should be an encouragement and inspiration that regardless of your background, you can make it.

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