Despite many challenges associated with women’s participation in politics and the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, The opportunities provided by FOWODE for young women leaders to hone their leadership skills and prepare them for the 2021 scientific campaigns that ensued by the Electoral Commission.

In December 2020, FOWODE mobilized and trained 50 aspiring women candidates in Kibuku district on transformative and accountable leadership. The training aimed at giving women candidates relevant knowledge and skills on effective campaign management, communication skills, gender-responsive budgeting and evidenced policy advocacy for enhanced participation of women in political and democratic processes.

Amina Weere, a 27 years old youth representative in Kibuku, was one of the beneficiaries of this training. She says the local training made her more vibrant and scaled up her candidature because her manifesto for the women and girls in the district was clear.

“Although I wanted to become a leader, I couldn’t make a presentation without shaking. However, the training on effective leadership enhanced my communication skills. I was able to move from one sub-county to another mobilizing voters among fellow youths and women to vote for me in the 2021 general elections. As a result, I emerged winner for the District Female Youth Councilor (LCV) and attained additional responsibilities of Chairperson, Finance, Planning and Administration Committee.”

Amiina attributes her success and growth as a leader to the training from FOWODE. “I have now ability to implement my political manifesto and represent community issues during the district programs committee meetings and council debates. I thank FOWODE for boosting my political career as a young transformative leader. I pledge to use my new political roles and space for amplifying community advocacy actions on the need to promote gender equality and strengthen the ability to reclaim women and girl’s rights in the district.