Generation Equality marks five years with renewed push for gender equality

The Kenyan government and UN Women on Wednesday marked five years of the Generation Equality initiative in Nairobi, highlighting progress in advancing gender equality while calling for renewed commitments to address persistent financing and implementation gaps.

The event brought together global leaders and stakeholders to launch a series of 2026 Generation Equality reports assessing the initiative’s impact, financing and lessons learned since its launch in 2021.

The reports show that partners have committed USD 50.3 billion towards advancing gender equality over the past five years, with more than USD 21 billion already disbursed to support nearly 2,000 initiatives worldwide.

A financial commitments analysis found that while investment in gender equality has increased, significant disparities remain in how funding is distributed and accessed. A separate synthesis report said partnerships among governments, civil society, youth groups, the private sector and the United Nations had helped drive policy reforms and strengthen collective action.

Anne Wang’ombe, Principal Secretary in Kenya’s State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action, said the initiative had accelerated the country’s efforts to prevent and respond to gender-based violence through increased financing, stronger partnerships, policy reforms and community-led action. Her remarks were delivered by Grace Obonyo, Secretary General in the department.

“One of our greatest lessons has been that lasting change happens when commitments are localized and owned by communities,” Wang’ombe said.

Zainab Hawa Bangura, Director-General of the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON), said the initiative had demonstrated the value of partnerships in advancing gender equality and sustainable development.

“One lesson remains clear: partnership is the foundation of lasting progress and sustainable development,” Bangura said.

The meeting also launched the Generation Equality Vision and Strategy to 2030, which outlines priorities including strengthening partnerships, scaling up financing, deepening impact and advancing inclusive leadership.

Organisers also released a compendium of lessons learned over the past five years, aimed at helping governments and partners translate global commitments into practical results.

Participants said that despite significant progress, challenges including shrinking civic space and financing constraints continue to threaten gains made on gender equality, underscoring the need for sustained collaboration and accountability.

The meeting concluded with a renewed call for governments, development partners, civil society and the private sector to build on the initiative’s momentum and accelerate progress for women and girls globally.