Women andthe Political Mosaic in Kenya: Patterns andTrends ofWomen Participation andRepresentation inPolitics Since Independence

Abstract

Purpose: To analyze the women and the political mosaic (patterns and trends) of women participation and representation in post independence Kenya.

Methodology: The study utilized a mixed research design.

Findings: Results revealed that women participation in the electoral process is very low. The results also revealed that there has been a gradual increase in the level of women representation in parliament. The results also reveal that women do not have a full understanding of the constitution since their responses were not in tandem with what the Constitution of Kenya 2010states. Further, results revealed that women participation and representation in post independence Kenya came along with many benefits for the women. Results also revealed that there are various challenges attributed to women participation and representation in post independence Kenya. These challenges included discrimination by the community and male politicians, abuse by male politicians during campaigns, financial incapability, lack of support by their spouses, families and the community at large and lack of support by fellow women.

Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The research was timely since political participation and representation of women is yet to reach the minimum one third constitutional requirements. The outcome of the research would be of relevance to the government policy-makers on the advantages of involving women's participation and representation in political leadership at all levels. It aims to serve as a tool for reference to all those who would work to increase women participation and representation in political leadership roles in various countries. This study would also stimulate policy reorientation towards increased gender mainstreaming. It is hoped that this research would lead to further policy measures that inform legislation to enhance the representation of women in political governance and gender mainstreaming as envisaged in the Constitution which advocates for equal gender participation and representation. The study would also lead to the realization of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG's) as well as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, fight inequality and injustice, and tackle climate change by 2030.