The National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) Gender Conference concluded  in Nairobi as participants called for actionable strategies for inclusivity and gender equality in sports.

The regional conference focused on East African participants with an aim of creating a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and action among stakeholders in the sports ecosystem.

The two-day conference featured a diverse lineup of NOC-K executives, national federation leaders, sports women leaders, and athletes, all aiming to address critical gender issues and develop inclusive solutions for the future of sports.

During the opening ceremony on Tuesday, NOC-K president Paul Tergat emphasised the Committee’s deliberate efforts in advancing gender equity.

“Through programs like the Women in Sport High-Performance Program and the Commonwealth Women’s Leadership Programme, NOC-K has empowered sportswomen in administration, coaching, and competition, marking significant strides in inclusivity,” said Tergat.

Former Kenyatta University Vice-Chancellor Prof Olive Mugenda shared her inspiring journey, encouraging women to embrace discipline, resilience, and sacrifice. She urged NOC-K to strengthen policies on gender-based violence and proposed the establishment of a sports-focused university.

“Leading an institution takes a strong mind, strong will, and strong vision. It takes a strong woman to lead an institution, strong minded, strong willed and strong sighted,” Mugenda noted.

President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Faith Odhiambo delved into gender issues in sports governance, emphasising policy and legal frameworks.

Esse Akida, a former Harambee Starlets forward, said time has come to ensure all female athletes are protected.

“It’s about ensuring that no girl has to feel unsafe or unworthy because of her gender. We’re creating spaces where women and girls can thrive, where they can dream as big as anyone else,” said Akida.