ASSESSING THE AWARENESS OF AGENDA 2063 ON GENDER DEVELOPMENT IN MALINDI, KENYA

Abstract

This study assessed the awareness of Agenda 2063 on gender development in Malindi, Kenya, aiming to explore its implementation and impact within the local community. Malindi, a coastal town in Kenya, represents a diverse demographic with specific socioeconomic challenges that necessitate targeted gender development strategies. Despite global and national commitments to gender equality, local implementation and awareness of Agenda 2063 remain understudied, highlighting a critical research gap. Statistics indicate that only 30% of the population in Malindi is aware of Agenda 2063, with serious disparities in understanding its gender-focused initiatives. The purpose of this study was therefore to evaluate the extent of Agenda 2063 awareness on gender development in Malindi, emphasizing its relevance and potential impact on socio-economic outcomes. This study was anchored on Gender and Development Theory. The study employed a descriptive research design. The target population comprised community members, local authorities, and civil society organizations actively engaged in gender-related initiatives in Malindi. Data collection involved structured questionnaires distributed among 250 respondents, selected through stratified sampling. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS for quantitative data, focusing on descriptive statistics and inferential tests to assess awareness levels. The analysis involved both descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Key findings indicated a moderate awareness level of Agenda 2063 on gender development in Malindi, with 45% of respondents expressing familiarity with its objectives and principles. Further analysis revealed that awareness levels varied significantly across different demographic groups. For instance, younger respondents and those with higher education levels were more likely to be aware of Agenda 2063. Additionally, respondents actively engaged with local authorities or civil society organizations showed higher levels of awareness and understanding of the gender-focused initiatives under Agenda 2063. However, significant gaps existed in understanding specific strategies and implementation mechanisms. The study concludes that there is need for localized advocacy and capacity building efforts to advance gender development goals in Malindi. Moreover, the study concludes that there is a need for localized advocacy and capacity-building efforts to advance gender development goals in Malindi. In view of the findings, the study recommends enhancing educational programs to raise awareness about Agenda 2063 and its gender-related objectives. Strengthening community outreach is also essential to ensure that information reaches all segments of the population. Furthermore, fostering partnerships between local authorities and civil society organizations within Malindi c facilitate the dissemination of information and the implementation of gender development strategies. In view of the findings, the study recommends that there is need to enhance educational programs, strengthening community outreach, and fostering partnerships between local authorities and civil society organizations within Malindi. These efforts are crucial for realizing Agenda 2063's vision of inclusive development and gender equality across Kenya.