Presidential candidate Dr Eric Rutto, running for the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has vowed to prioritize the establishment of an office dedicated to women in business, youth, and people with disabilities if elected.

The proposal, put forward by women directors in the Nyanza region, aims to address the concerns raised by women directors in Kisumu, Homabay, and Siaya regarding the perceived gender bias within the chamber.

Expressing disappointment over the removal of the women in business office from the chamber constitution without the approval of the national governing committee, Ruto criticized the action as illegal and contrary to the spirit of the Kenyan constitution.

“We were dismayed following reports that the national chamber that the women in the business office had been removed from the chamber constitution without the approval of the national governing committee,” Rutto stated.

He emphasized the significant role played by women in the business community, stating that they operate more than 70 per cent of small businesses in the country.

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Ruto believes that women, alongside the youth and people with disabilities, deserve a voice and equal representation within the chamber.

During a meeting with KNCCI County directors in Kisumu, Ruto emphasized his commitment to rectifying the injustice faced by women members and marginalized groups.

He pledged to ensure that all members, regardless of gender, age, or abilities, are respected and provided with opportunities for meaningful participation in the business sector.

“I have made it my foremost priority that given the opportunity to act as Chamber President I will redo the injustice to all our women members, the youth and people living with disabilities in Kenya. We will make it right and make it worthwhile for all our members despite their gender, age and abilities,” Rutto said.

Mustafa Ramadhan, the Chamber's Vice President candidate, also spoke at the event, urging the region to invest in various value chains such as the blue economy, mining, agriculture, and tourism.

Mustafa Ramadhan. PHOTO/COURTESY

The chamber aims to support rice farmers in the Nyanza region by providing equipment for packaging and branding, thereby enhancing their market access and income.

“The potential in the Nyanza region is unmatched by many other regions ranging from blue economy, mining, agriculture to tourism. As a chamber we are expected by our members in this region to assist access markets, equipment and drive investors into this area to develop value chains in what will surely change incomes,” Mustafa said.

The Ruto-Mustafa team received endorsements from chamber directors in Kisumu and Siaya counties during their upper Nyanza regional tour.

This support adds to their previous endorsements from six other regions, including lower Eastern, Upper Eastern, Central Kenya region, Southern Nyanza, Upper Rift, and Lower Rift.