Across Africa, women have long faced barriers in accessing leadership roles. Cultural expectations and certain religious interpretations have sometimes been used to limit women’s influence in public life and in places of worship. Communities have often overlooked the wisdom, strength and innovation that women bring to leadership.

It is within this context that PROCMURA convened the Church Leaders’ Workshop on Women and Leadership in Mombasa. The workshop opened with a renewed call to recognise and value the contribution of women ascending to leadership roles in the Church and wider society. The Vicar General of the ACK Mombasa Diocese, Ven. Canon William Katama, who officially opened the workshop, affirmed this commitment. He called on the church to reaffirm its responsibility in strengthening inclusive practices that encourage women to lead with confidence and purpose.

_{The Vicar General of the ACK Mombasa Diocese, Ven. Canon William Katama, during his address to officially open the workshop.}

Participants were drawn from various denominations across the Coastal region. Their shared goal was to deepen understanding, enrich dialogue and explore practical steps that can strengthen women’s participation in leadership structures. The atmosphere throughout the workshop reflected a strong desire among clergy and lay leaders to help nurture a Church community where all members, regardless of gender, can contribute fully to the mission of Christ.

A guiding moment of the day came from PROCMURA’s General Adviser Bishop (Dr) Nathan Samwini, who led an insightful session on Women in Leadership. He highlighted several biblical examples of courageous women whose influence shaped the spiritual and social life of their communities. His reflections helped demonstrate that women’s leadership is not an exception in the biblical story but a recurring theme that speaks to faithfulness, resilience and God’s calling.

_{The General Adviser of PROCMURA Bishop (Dr) Nathan Samwini facilitating a session.}

Bishop Samwini emphasised the need for Church leaders to remain intentional in creating supportive environments that enable women to grow into positions of influence. He invited participants to reflect on how their own congregations can open more spaces for women to lead in teaching, administration, peacebuilding and community development.

Discussions also addressed the practical realities that women encounter when pursuing leadership paths. Participants shared experiences from within their congregations. They spoke about the importance of mentorship, continuous training and collective encouragement as women take on responsibilities that shape the spiritual life of the Church.

A section of the church leaders keenly following a session during the workshop.

While challenging the Church leaders to create a safe space for women in their congregations to release their full potential, the Programme Officer of PROCMURA, Rev. Dr. Salli Effungani, noted, “this workshop reminds us that leadership is not defined by gender but by calling, character and commitment. Women in our churches continue to demonstrate remarkable ability, yet many still face barriers that limit their fullest contribution. PROCMURA is committed to breaking these barriers by strengthening training, mentorship and community understanding so that more women can ascend to leadership roles and serve in ways that honour their God-given potential.”

By the end of the workshop, it was clear that the conversations had sparked renewed energy among participants. The Church leaders left with a shared commitment to help build communities that recognise women as equal partners in ministry. They agreed that the Church grows stronger when it values all its members and when its leadership reflects the gifts that God has placed in both women and men.

PROCMURA continues to invest in programmes that equip Church leaders with knowledge and practical skills to promote gender inclusivity. The organisation remains dedicated to supporting communities as they work towards a future where women are empowered to lead with dignity, courage and excellence.