Kisumu: The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Ingonga, has called on women serving in the prosecutorial field to embrace self-care and wellness as central pillars of effective leadership and justice delivery. Speaking in Kisumu while presiding over the ODPP Western Region Women Conference, Ingonga described women as the heartbeat of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and the backbone of justice, lauding their critical role in advancing fairness and compassion within Kenya’s criminal justice system.

According to Kenya News Agency, Ingonga emphasized the theme of the conference, ‘Wellness, Work, and Warmth’, and the timeline ‘Invest in Women – Confidence Rooted in Wellness, Work, and Warmth.’ He stated that societies thrive when women are empowered, their contributions recognized, and gender equity practiced. He praised women prosecutors for balancing professional responsibilities with family and community roles, describing them as unseen architects of change who bring humanity into the justice process.

Ingonga highlighted that women hold key leadership positions across the ODPP, making the office a model of gender inclusivity in the public service. He emphasized that empowerment begins with self-awareness and self-care, urging women to prioritize their well-being even as they serve the public. The DPP encouraged participants to take advantage of health clinics and consultations provided during the event, linking the wellness theme to Breast Cancer Awareness Month as a reaffirmation of the ODPP’s commitment to women’s health.

The conference’s chosen colour, blue, symbolizes calm, warmth, health, and equity-values embodied by women in the ODPP. Ingonga urged senior prosecutors to mentor younger women within the office, fostering an environment where the next generation finds allies and mentors rather than barriers.

Kisumu Governor’s spouse, Dorothy Nyong’o, also attended the event, urging women to prioritize wellness through regular medical check-ups. She underscored the importance of early detection through routine breast and cervical cancer screening, describing it as key in combating diseases affecting women’s health. Mrs Nyong’o commended the ODPP for dedicating the forum to women’s wellness and empowerment.