By Emmanuel Koffa
The Organization for Women and Children (OWC), in partnership with the African Women Leaders Network (AWLN), has launched a county-level initiative.
The exercise is in a bid to address the persistent under representation of women in political and leadership spaces.
It aims at transforming social norms and strengthen women’s political participation.
On the intervention, OWC Project Assistant, Denise Blessing Denise, said the program is designed to move beyond awareness, and tackle structural barriers that have limited women inclusion in governance.
“This initiative is not just about encouraging women to participate; it is about changing the systems and social norms that have historically excluded them from leadership.”
Madam Denise said the project is being implemented under the theme: “Advancing Women’s Political Participation Through Social Norms Change and Global Advocacy.”
The theme places emphasis on long-term behavioral and institutional change.
“When social norms change, women are given the confidence, and the space to lead, and communities begin to benefit from inclusive decision-making.”
From a governance perspective, Madam Denise said, the project team engaged civil society organizations, women’s groups, and the office of the county superintendent to ensure alignment with local development priorities.
“Engaging governance institutions and community actors is critical if women participation is to be reflected in policy and development planning.”
She said the discussions created an opportunity for stakeholders to openly assess why women remain marginalized in political processes, particularly at the county level.
“The conversations were honest and revealing, especially around women limited role in County Development Sittings, and decisions involving the County Development Fund.”
As of the capacity gaps, Madam Denise said, baseline studies conducted in the county informed the rollout of targeted trainings for civil society organizations and selected women under a mentorship program.
“The data showed clear gaps in technical skills and advocacy capacity, which is why we introduced structured trainings to strengthen women engagement in governance.”
Madam Denise said, the trainings aim to enhance women’s leadership confidence, policy literacy, and ability to hold decision-makers accountable.
“Empowerment is not just about numbers; it is about equipping women with the tools to influence decisions that affect their lives.”
From the community angle, some of the women groups have welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and transformative.
“For the first time, our concerns are being taken seriously, and we are being prepared to sit at decision-making tables,” said a representative of one of the groups.
“This program gives us the confidence to speak, to lead, and to demand inclusion in county governance.”
The OWC–AWLN partnership could serve as a model for expanding women political participation across other counties if sustained and supported.