President William Ruto has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering women and girls.
In a message to mark International Women’s Day, Ruto said the goal is not just to enhance equality and justice but also to ensure a more inclusive and prosperous society.
“We remain resolute in our quest to breaking barriers, expanding opportunities and fostering an environment where every woman and girl can thrive, lead and realise their full potential,” he stated.
“To the women shaping strong families behind the scenes, to entrepreneurs, innovators and change makers driving our economy forward, to the leaders in politics and community service guiding us into the future, your courage, zeal and vision inspires us all today and always.”
International Women’s Day, observed every year on March 8, serves as a global platform to honour women’s contributions across various fields, including social, economic, political, and cultural spheres.
The theme for 2025, "For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment," emphasises the importance of universal rights and opportunities, ensuring that every woman and girl can contribute to a more equitable future.
The global event has its roots in the early 20th century, when the first official Women's Day celebration took place in 1911 in countries including Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland.
In 1914, International Women's Day was held on March 8 for the first time in Germany, possibly because that date was a Sunday.
In 1975, the United Nations officially recognised the day.
In 1977, the United Nations General Assembly invited member states to "proclaim in accordance with their historical and national traditions and customs, any day of the year as United Nations Day for Women's Rights and International Peace".
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action was adopted at the Fourth World Conference on Women in 1995 in Beijing, China, by 189 governments.
It remains the most progressive and widely endorsed blueprint for women’s and girls’ rights worldwide.
