The Department of Gender, Culture, Disaster Management,
Social Services, Special Programs, Youth Affairs and Sports
Through dedicated efforts and strategic initiatives, we have made significant strides in advancing gender equality and empowerment in Kilifi County. From launching Phase V of the #HERVoiceFund project to empowering adolescent girls and young women, to providing training for women entrepreneurs across various sectors, our department is committed to fostering economic opportunities and ending Gender-Based Violence (GBV) by 2026.
Together, we are building a Kilifi where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to a brighter, more inclusive community.
The Departments Leadership
Transforming the Society Positively by empowering youth and Manage Gender And Culture
Hon. Dr. Ruth D. Masha
Dr. Ruth Dama Masha is the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) overseeing Gender, Youth, Sports, Culture, Social Services, Disaster Management, and Special Programs in Kilifi County. With a wealth of experience spanning over a decade as a Health Practitioner, she brings a unique blend of medical expertise and a passion for community well-being to her role.
Dr. Masha holds a degree in Medicine and Surgery from The Hubert Kairuki Memorial University in Tanzania (2008), a Master of Arts in International Studies and Diplomacy (2018), and a Master of Medicine in Psychiatry (2022), both from The University of Nairobi.
With a fervent dedication to mental health advocacy, Dr. Masha is a trauma counselor and a champion in providing psychological first aid, advanced trauma care, and cardiac life support.
Agneta Charo
Ms. Agneta Karembo Charo currently holds the position of Chief Officer of Gender, Culture, and Social Services in Kilifi County. With a background in community development and gender advocacy, she has showcased her proficiency in community engagement, coordination, and project management over the course of her career.
Naftali Owino
The Chief Officer for Youth and Sports in Kilifi County is a key administrative role responsible for overseeing and implementing policies, programs, and projects related to youth development and sports within the county.
Department’s Mandate, Mission and Vision
The department is mandated to do some of the following, among many other things:
Gender Mainstreaming
Integrating Gender Equality Across Policies and Programs
Empowerment and Economic Development
Enhancing Economic Opportunities for Women and Marginalized Groups
Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Response
Addressing and Preventing Gender-Based Violence in Kilifi County
Mission and Vision
The Department’s Mission and Vision
Mission: A Positively Transformed society
Vision:Â To Provide Social Services, Manage gender and culture, Empower Youth, Promote sports and Ensure gambling is conducted honestly and competitely for socio-economic development.
Gender Department Projects and Success Stories
Empowering Communities, Building Futures: The Gender Department Projects and Success Stories
A gender based violence recovery center opened in Kilifi
Empowering Equity
Efforts in fighting Against Gender Based Violence
Our efforts to combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV) are embodied in a significant initiative aimed at ending GBV in Kilifi by 2026. Through the establishment of Technical Working Groups and the development of comprehensive strategies, we are creating a unified approach to address GBV, advocate for survivors, and foster a safer community.
Furthermore, the localization of the Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) Strategy 2020-2025 has been a key focus. By tailoring the strategy to address the specific needs of women and young girls in Kilifi County, we are working to remove systemic barriers and promote economic and social advancement for all.
Together, these initiatives reflect our dedication to creating an inclusive and equitable environment, empowering individuals, and driving sustainable positive change in Kilifi County.
