First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto has urged members of the East African Legislative Assembly Women’s Caucus to fast-track legislation to support women’s economic empowerment in the region.

By recognising the importance of gender equality and the need to accelerate the empowerment of women in our countries, we will catalyse development in all aspects of life and ultimately transform families, communities, East African Member States and the continent as a whole.

The East African Legislative Assembly Women Causus is working towards emerging as a powerful voice in articulating the East African women’s agenda of justice, equality, equity and accountability in the EAC integration process.

The First Lady urged Causus members to use their platforms to empower women, harness our region’s youthful workforce and protect our children. By collectively using our human capital and natural resources productively, the legislators will chart a new course towards a better future for the citizens of the East African Community.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Peninah Malonza, Cabinet Secretary for East African Community, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) and Regional Development, said she was inspired by the First Lady’s commitment to the economic empowerment of women in Kenya.

The legislators present will be exposed to Mama Rachel Ruto’s programmes, including a table banking experience.

Other leaders present include Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, 1st Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for EAC Affairs of the Republic of Uganda; Dr Anne Itto, Chairperson of the EALA Caucus; Amb. Fatuma Ndangiza, Secretary General of the EALA Caucus; and Mwanaisha Chidzuga, Deputy Government Spokesperson of the Republic of Kenya.