Kenya’s schools should provide clean and safe breastfeeding spaces for lactating teachers, the government has said, calling it both a humane and necessary step.
Principal Secretary for Public Health Mary Muthoni made the appeal in Nairobi during celebrations marking the sixth anniversary of the Kenya Women Teachers Association (KEWOTA). Speaking at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Ms Muthoni urged head teachers to allocate private rooms where teachers can express milk or breastfeed comfortably while at work.
“No mother should have to choose between her child and her career. Breastfeeding is natural, and creating safe spaces for it in schools is an act of dignity and compassion,” ,” said PS Muthoni.
She praised KEWOTA for championing the idea and pledged the ministry’s full support in expanding the programme nationwide.
“We are ready to work with KEWOTA to make this a reality in every school,” she said.
Drawing from her own background as a former teacher, PS Muthoni said she understood the pressures faced by women balancing work and motherhood. She also raised concern over rising cases of gender-based violence in workplaces, warning that schools were not immune.
“We all deserve workplaces built on respect. Any case of harassment or abuse must be reported immediately,” she said.
KEWOTA Chief Executive Officer Benta Opande welcomed the PS’s endorsement, saying it was a sign of recognition for the association’s growing influence. However, she urged the government to treat KEWOTA as a key stakeholder in education policy.
“When the President invited teachers to State House, KEWOTA wasn’t recognised, yet others were. We started with resistance, but six years on, we’ve achieved so much,” Ms Opande noted.
The association, which now counts over 10,000 members, has introduced a range of support programmes including subsidised water tanks, financial literacy training, savings and investment schemes, and insurance services for teachers.
National Chairperson Modesta Akaki applauded members for their resilience. “Together we have shown that unity delivers progress,” she said to loud applause.
Treasurer Jacinta Ndegwa reminded members that the organisation’s vision includes both women and men. “KEWOTA welcomes male teachers too,prompting cheers from male members in attendance,” she said.
The event brought together hundreds of delegates and partners, including major financial and technology firms such as Safaricom and Old Mutual, who pledged continued support for teachers’ welfare initiatives.
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