DPP Ingonga lauds role of women at ODPP Nyanza Region Ladies Conference

KISUMU: The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Ingonga, has hailed the critical role played by women in the operations of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), acknowledging their leadership, resilience, and dedication to justice.

Speaking today at a Kisumu during the launch of the ODPP Nyanza Region Women’s Conference, Mr. Ingonga said women have been instrumental in the management and success of the institution across the country.

“Women are very important in our lives. They are our support system,” Ingonga stated, adding that the ODPP prides itself on a strong gender balance that reflects women’s growing influence in key decision-making positions.

“At the ODPP, we have more women prosecutors compared to men. We have women serving as Chief of Staff, Deputy Directors, Regional and County Heads, and Heads of Divisions, all of whom influence policy and handle complex court matters with excellence,” he noted.

The DPP praised women prosecutors for their courage in handling sensitive and demanding cases such as murder and gender-based violence, while balancing their professional duties with their family responsibilities.

He also emphasized the need for regular health check-ups, urging ODPP staff and the public to prioritize their physical and mental wellbeing.

“Don’t wait until you have pain to visit the hospital. You need to be in the best shape, both physically and mentally, to perform effectively,” he advised.

The event was graced by Kisumu County First Lady Dorothy Nyong’o, who commended Ingonga for recognizing the contribution of women and underscored the importance of adopting healthy lifestyles.

Mrs. Nyong’o encouraged both men and women to eat nutritious foods, consume plenty of vegetables and fruits, avoid processed foods, and undergo regular cancer screenings, particularly for breast cancer so as to maintain healthy lifestyles.

“I commend the DPP for recognizing and celebrating the strength and leadership of women. When women thrive, institutions and communities become stronger,” said Ms. Nyong’o.

“Women carry the weight of many roles as professionals, mothers, spouses, and caregivers. But even as we serve others, we must remember to take care of ourselves. Our health is our greatest asset. I urge all of us to be deliberate about healthy living, eat more vegetables and fruits, drink natural juices, and reduce our intake of processed foods.”

Other notable guests included Lady Justice Hellen Omondi representing the Judiciary, Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga, ODPP’s Secretary of Prosecution Services Alloys Kemu, senior ODPP officials led by Deputy Directors Jacinta Nyamosi and Vincent Monda, Kisumu Regional Head Catherine Mwaniki., plus Dr. Cynthia Adisa, a psychologist at Aga Khan Hospital.

The day-long conference held with the theme “Confidence rooted in wealth, wellness and work, is focused on celebrating the role of women in the country, with focus on issues of mental health, personal wellness, and work-life balance. Delegates will engage in discussions and motivational sessions aimed at empowering women professionals within the ODPP and beyond.