On 3rd December, 2024, ORPP hosted one of its kind sitting of men in Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) to honor and recognize men fraternity. The meet up was one of the ORPP deliberate efforts to cater for the welfare of its staff
“We look forward to a day filled with inspiration , empowerment and renewed energy that translates into productivity at personal life and work as well as better working conditions that ORPP is keen on” noted head of HRM , Jacqueline Kosgei. Her sentiments were echoed by the incoming head of the department , Damaris Mwendwa saying “this is such a time we must reflect as individuals and colleagues on our holistic wellness while having meaningful discussions about the various challenges that impact their lives”.
The event coordinated by Human Resource Management department was graced by the Registrar Ann Nderitu, CBS. The Registrar while in the forum observed that “Men have a nurturing responsibility and therefore, society depends on them for direction and progress. I urge the ORPP men which has a significant contribution to ORPP’s milestones to in their personal and professional capacity to live up to this expectation”. She underscored the importance of men at ORPP acting responsibly citing a number of misconduct cases recently reported that were prevalent in men.
Participants termed the event “one of its kind”, appreciating the kind gesture of ORPP’s leadership led by the Registrar to afford them and spare finances for such an occasion . “ This is historical moment for us men to candidly speak out our issues as guided by health wellness and financial experts involved today”, appreciated Ezekiel Obonyo, Kisumu office Coordinator.
Others spoke of the need to regularize and magnify the event with own men drives. I request HR to speak on our behalf and make the men event at ORPP an annual occasion”, noted Chris Kiprotich, a driver. “This occasion sets us off as men in ORPP to consider convening our own meet-ups such as excursions and others”, suggested Nicholas Kaburu of Account services department.
In the forum, men were also sensitized on holistic wellness as presided over by Dr. Wahome, a well-versed Psychiatrist and financial wellness from Old Mutual financial advisers. To spice up the occasions, men also got a rare chance to hear life and practical experiences from the ORPP’s long service senior staff, Joel Terer alias “Chair of Chairs, now in retirement. “To be better in both work and after work, it boils down to commitment, discipline and penchant for continuous learning”, counseled Terer while underscoring the important of early retirement planning. He informed in his retirement, he was now engaged in farming and also holds a number of chairmanship responsibilities in church, school and community associations within his locale.
Further, men in groups, held discussions on socio-economic challenges encountered in personal and work spheres and shared appropriate strategies. The event was critical in unpacking and dissecting men matters in male perspectives. They also noted the need to support women colleagues and family members for a balanced living.