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Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland has today been recognised with an award for her work on gender equality and the empowerment of women in Kenya and the Commonwealth.

The award was presented by Professor Margaret Kobia on behalf of the Ministry of Public Service and Gender at a gathering to mark International Women's Day, in Nairobi.

Secretary-General Scotland said, “It's a great honour to receive an award for such an important area of work, that informs the Commonwealth’s Charter’s recognition that ‘gender equality and women’s empowerment are essential components of human development and basic human rights.’ And as we celebrate women’s day today, it is perhaps providential, that it is also, Commonwealth Day — forcing us to consider the future of gender equality from an international governance and multilateral perspective”.  

The Secretary-General joins recipients of the award who have demonstrated commitment to the fight for gender equality and tirelessly campaigned against gender-based violence. They include the first lady of Kenya, Her Excellency Margaret Kenyatta and Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Defence Dr Monica Juma.