At least seven of the 45 regional governors elected in Kenya’s general election were women, compared to just three in the previous election.
The incoming governors will be sworn in Thursday.
It was a record win for women as the seven governor-elects ushered a new wave of female leaders occupying influential positions previously won by men.
Governors are in charge of huge budgets and are expected to spearhead development in their counties.
The seven are Susan Kihika (Nakuru County), Fatuma Achani (Kwale County), Kawira Mwangaza (Meru County), Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay County), Cecily Mbarire (Embu County), Wavinya Ndeti (Machakos County) and Anne Waiguru (Kirinyaga County).
Kenya’s first female Chief Justice Martha Koome has appointed 45 judges to preside over the swearing-in ceremony of the incoming governors.
More than 20 women candidates vied for governor posts in the just concluded elections.
Despite women making up nearly half of registered voters, very few female leaders hold elective positions.
While the number of women elected to parliament rose by 20% in 2017, the country still trails regional neighbours like Rwanda in terms of gender parity.
BBC/Simeon Ugbodovon
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