Remembering Phoebe Asiyo: A Trailblazer for Women in Kenya

Burial Ceremony of Phoebe Asiyo, former Karachuonyo MP [Edward Kiplimo]

On July 16, 2023, the world lost Phoebe Asiyo, a prominent figure in Kenyan politics and a passionate advocate for women’s rights. Her memorial service in North Carolina was attended by a high-profile gathering of political leaders, civil society representatives, and dignitaries, all of whom paid tribute to a life dedicated to the empowerment of women and the marginalized.

A Life of Impact

Phoebe Asiyo’s contributions to Kenya extend far beyond traditional politics. Born on September 12, 1932, she was a pioneering figure in the women’s movement, serving as a former Member of Parliament for Karachuonyo and a diplomat. Asiyo’s work helped carve pathways for women in leadership roles, fundamentally reshaping the national discourse around gender and social justice.

Leaders at the Memorial
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, along with several other prominent politicians, attended her memorial service, emphasizing the transformative impact Asiyo had throughout her long career. Senator Margaret Kamar and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna were among the speakers expressing their deep admiration for Asiyo’s relentless commitment to advancing the rights and opportunities for women.

A Mentor and Role Model

Described as “a movement and an institution,” Asiyo was not just a politician; she was a mentor to many women who would go on to become leaders themselves. Rahab Muiu, the National Chairperson of the Maendeleo ya Wanawake Organisation (MYWO), recalled her as both a patron and a guiding figure. Muiu summarized her essence perfectly, noting, “Mama Phoebe was not just our patron, she was our compass.”

Through MYWO, which she led from 1958, Asiyo ushered in a formidable era of women’s mobilization and policy influence. Her commitment to women’s rights echoed throughout her life, as she worked tirelessly to combat poverty and harmful cultural practices, such as female genital mutilation.

Political Milestones

Asiyo made headlines as one of the first women from Nyanza to enter Parliament, following in the footsteps of Grace Onyango, Kenya’s first female MP. This groundbreaking achievement paved the way for future generations of women leaders. In the 1970s and again in the 1990s, Asiyo represented Karachuonyo Constituency, laying a strong foundation for women’s political participation in Kenya.

Her legacy includes a historic motion in 1997 that advocated for women’s affirmative action in politics, essentially granting voices to many women leaders who would later follow in her footsteps. Millie Odhiambo, a current MP, credited Asiyo’s initiatives for many leaders’ ability to gain nominations prior to their successful careers in elected office.

Values and Leadership Style

Asiyo’s unique leadership style emphasized dignity and respect. Suba North MP Moses Kajwang echoed this sentiment, stating, “Mama Phoebe taught us that you can rebuke without raising your voice and correct without condemning.” Emphasizing quiet yet firm leadership, her approach transformed not only political landscapes but societal perceptions of women in leadership roles.

Recognition for her contributions came in various forms, including the prestigious Order of the Burning Spear in 2018, awarded to those who have made significant national contributions.

Cultural Influence

One of Asiyo’s most remarkable accomplishments was becoming the first woman appointed as a Luo elder, breaking cultural boundaries that had long confined leadership roles to men. This achievement solidified her position as a matriarch not just in politics, but also in cultural and communal contexts, showing that women can and should hold significant positions of power.

Family Connections and Legacy

Beyond her public life, Asiyo was cherished by her family. Her daughter, June, shared heartfelt moments from their time together and expressed immense gratitude for her mother’s dedication to education and women’s empowerment. June highlighted Asiyo’s relentless efforts to ensure her children received a good education, noting how her early activism paved the way for women in academia.

During her final days, Asiyo and her family engaged in deep conversations about legacy, values, and the importance of preparing for life’s transitions, emphasizing a life lived fully and meaningfully.

Continuing Her Vision

In the wake of her passing, numerous leaders have echoed calls for women’s empowerment and inclusion in political spaces. Senator Edwin Sifuna remarked on the ongoing struggles women still face today, reinforcing the importance of continued advocacy for women’s rights in leadership.

“Mama Asiyo has taught us that the place of a woman is not just in the kitchen,” Sifuna said, emphasizing that women involved in leadership roles contribute to societal progress.

As Kenya remembers Phoebe Asiyo, it is clear that her legacy will resonate for generations to come, inspiring new leaders to emerge in a world that increasingly values inclusion and equality.