Athens, Ga. (May 12, 2008) — Advocating for the rights of their communities, creating an environment for open dialogue about societal issues, and empowering women with the skills and confidence to engage successfully in civic life are three priorities for Kenyan women leaders currently participating in an exchange visit coordinated by the Carl Vinson Institute of Government’s International Center for Democratic Governance.

The 14 women from the Narok and Kajiado districts of Kenya’s Rift Valley Province provided attendees with an inside look at gender issues in the Maasai community during a multi-faceted presentation on May 2 that was a mix of commentary, skits, native song and dance, and crafts.

The delegation arrived in Athens on April 26 for a three-week program of site visits and information sessions on the skills and organizational capacity needed for effective engagement in politics and policy-making. Funding is provided by a grant from the U.S. Department of State, according to Njeri Marekia-Cleaveland, International Center for Democratic Governance African programs specialist.

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This article was posted on Monday, May 12th, 2008 at 12:54 pm and is filed under Program News, News.