Kitui Governor Dr. Julius Malombe today presided over the launch of the Kenya Care Economy Project Policy at a Kitui hotel, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to gender-responsive care solutions. Spearheaded by UN Women and Anglican Development Services Eastern (ADSE), the initiative targets Kauwi, Mutomo, and Athi wards to alleviate the disproportionate burden of unpaid care work on women and girls.
As the second project of its kind in Africa and Kenya, the initiative seeks to reshape policies and services that recognize and support unpaid care work. The launch emphasized raising awareness, fostering policy commitments, and encouraging sustained dialogue on equitable care solutions. Stakeholders underscored the urgent need to integrate care work into national and county-level planning.

Earlier in the day, UN Women and ADSE representatives paid a courtesy visit to Governor Malombe, where they discussed the project’s implementation and impact. The governor commended their efforts, acknowledging the vital role such initiatives play in empowering women and strengthening communities.

Dr. Malombe assured the teams of his government’s unwavering support, affirming Kitui’s position at the forefront of progressive care policies. With this partnership, Kitui sets a precedent for addressing care work inequities, paving the way for a more inclusive and gender-responsive future.
