IDLO is working with the Government of Kenya to advance gender equality across the country and enact gender provisions contained in the Constitution. Since 2013, IDLO has partnered to enhance the capacity of the Government of Kenya to mainstream gender at both the national and county levels. IDLO’s support included strategic policy development, critical legislative review, expert technical advice, and institutional strengthening.
In 2016, with IDLO’s support, the State Department of Gender achieved the constitutional rule that not more than two-thirds of the members of the elective bodies shall be of the same gender. IDLO has also been supporting the National Gender and Equality Commission to develop legislation and tools that can ensure gender equality and non-discrimination are entrenched at both the national and county levels. Together with the Office of the Attorney General and the Department of Justice, IDLO is working on several key legislative reforms related to advancing gender equality.
With regard to gender justice, IDLO has offered a range of technical assistance to Kenya’s judicial branch. Notably, IDLO supported the Family Division of the High Court through technical assistance in order fully facilitate access to gender justice for women and children, who comprise the majority of court users. Additionally, IDLO has supported the development of the Judiciary Sexual Harassment Policy and Guidelines and the Judiciary Gender Policy by providing specific guidance on gender mainstreaming and cultivating of a culture of non-discrimination.