Dr. Josephine Kulea, internationally recognized for her crusade against female genital mutilation and child marriage, will seek the Woman Representative position for Samburu County under the ruling United Democratic Alliance party.
The move represents a strategic pivot for Kulea, who has spent years championing the rights of women and girls in Kenya’s marginalized northern regions.
From Grassroots Advocacy to Political Arena
Kulea’s candidacy was formalized at UDA headquarters in Nairobi, where party national vice chair Kelvin Lunani welcomed her into the fold. The reception underscored the party’s broader push to field women candidates ahead of Kenya’s next general election.
“I am passionate about creating opportunities for women and youth, ensuring they have equal access to resources and opportunities for growth,” Kulea said during her induction.
She framed her political ambitions as a natural extension of her community work, arguing that legislative power could amplify the impact she has achieved through grassroots organizing.
Lunani used the occasion to encourage women nationwide to pursue elective office, emphasizing their essential role in shaping inclusive governance structures.
International Recognition and Anti-FGM Campaign
Kulea’s reputation extends beyond Kenya’s borders. In 2015, Obama publicly praised her work during his presidential visit to Kenya, bringing global attention to her fight against harmful traditional practices.
As founder and executive director of the Samburu Girls Foundation, Kulea has built a comprehensive support system that rescues girls fleeing FGM and forced marriages, provides shelter and education, and facilitates their return to school.
The foundation has assisted hundreds of girls across Samburu County, offering them pathways to education and economic independence.
Her willingness to challenge centuries-old cultural practices has earned both acclaim and resistance, positioning her as one of East Africa’s most visible women’s rights advocates.
UDA’s Growing Aspirant Pool
Kulea joins a swelling field of UDA aspirants. The party reports 9,165 candidates have registered for various positions, with the window remaining open until 90 days before the election date.
Her entry signals a trend of civil society figures transitioning into formal politics, bringing specialized expertise to the electoral battlefield.
For Samburu County residents, Kulea represents a familiar face with proven commitment to local development priorities, particularly regarding women’s empowerment.
She has called on constituents to support her bid, pledging to translate her experience in community development into legislative action and policy reform.
Whether her advocacy credentials will translate into electoral success remains uncertain, but her candidacy has already generated substantial attention in a race that could reshape representation for one of Kenya’s historically marginalized counties.
