Women’s History Month at ZanaAfrica: Recognitions and Advocacy
Photo: Members of the ZanaAfrica team receive recognition at the 7th Annual DIAR Awards in March. Pictured, left to right: Beatrice Jane - Executive Director, ZanaAfrica (Kenya); Alice Onsarigo - Program Manager, ZanaAfrica (Kenya); Florence Ng'ayo - Finance and Operations Assistant, ZanaAfrica Group.
March was a month of celebration and advocacy at ZanaAfrica as we joined the global community in honoring Women’s History Month. Women’s History Month is a time when we not only reflect on the incredible accomplishments of women but also take stock of our efforts in advancing gender equity, empowering girls, and fostering inclusivity.
March resulted in several milestones ZanaAfrica that underscored our ongoing commitment to empowering women and girls across Kenya, and we’re excited to share the highlights from this momentous month.
During International Women’s Day celebration in Homa Bay on March 8th —an event graced by Kenya’s First Lady Rachel Ruto— ZanaAfrica’s Founder, Megan Mukuria, and Beatrice Jane, Executive Director of ZanaAfrica Programs, called on the Kenyan Government to integrate gender issues into the national education system. They emphasized that this is a crucial step in tackling gender inequality, gender-based violence, and poverty.
Megan reinforced ZanaAfrica’s longstanding commitment to girls’ education and menstrual health, stating: “Lack of sanitary towels affects the girl’s concentration in class. We [ZanaAfrica] are providing sanitary towels which have a toll-free number that girls can call to get help on gender issues.” Their advocacy was featured in a Nation article covering the event, underscoring the power of education and access to menstrual products in uplifting girls and women across Kenya.
ZanaAfrica was honored at the 7th Annual DIAR Awards on March 7th in Nairobi. These awards celebrate people-centered organizations that promote inclusion and belonging for all people. ZanaAfrica took home two prestigious awards: Best Gender Lens Development Program and was the First Runner-Up for Inclusive Social Enterprise.
At ZanaAfrica, we believe that girls should have the opportunity to thrive, lead, and shape the future. As we reflect on Women’s History Month, we remain inspired by our achievements and excited for the work ahead.
Recognition at the DIAR Awards and ZanaAfrica’s involvement in the International Women’s Day event reaffirm our dedication to gender equity, girls' education, and menstrual health. We are committed to continuing our efforts to empower the next generation of female leaders and create a more inclusive and equitable world.