The workshop reviewed, and focused on how civil societies working in the area of gender in Kenya, could be involved in, and contribute to the processes and mechanisms of the New Partnership for African Development (NEPAD), in the eradication of poverty.
This was a pertinent and topical subject, as Kenya underwent the first significant review of its constitution post-independence. This publication tackled a wide array of subjects and issues, ranging from a critique of the constitutional separation of powers from a gender perspective, to an examination of reproductive rights from a constitutional stand-point.
As the 21st Century approached, there were various multi-faceted efforts geared towards a critical review of development in Africa. In the spirit of Africa taking ownership and responsibility for her development, there was ambition and optimism expressed in the common question “can Africa claim the 21st Century?”
Factors that determine full and active participation in constitution making in many African countries include the traditional set-up, customary laws and practices, modernity and religious factors. In some instances, customary law and religious beliefs override the Constitution.
