MCSK CEO Ezekiel Mutua Calls on Media to Champion Women's Leadership at Women Achievers Africa Conference 2026

Taifa Leo news 

Macharia David 

Nairobi, Kenya 

 Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK) Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ezekiel Mutua has called on the media, the creative industry and policymakers to transform the narrative around women by portraying them as leaders, innovators and decision-makers capable of shaping Africa's future.

Speaking as the guest speaker during the Women Achievers Africa Conference 2026 in Nairobi, Dr. Mutua said achieving gender equality requires more than constitutional reforms and policy changes, stressing that changing public perceptions through storytelling is equally important in breaking barriers that have historically limited women's leadership.

"If we want women to lead in boardrooms, classrooms, Parliament, studios and pulpits, we must change more than laws and policies. We must change how people see what leadership looks like," he said.

Dr. Mutua noted that the media remains one of the continent's most influential institutions because it shapes public opinion and determines who society views as role models.

"The media frames what we trust, what we admire and who we imagine as vision-makers. When television, film, entertainment and digital platforms portray women only in stereotypical roles, the message becomes that leadership is not for them. But when women are presented as policymakers, entrepreneurs, innovators and agents of change, they inspire the next generation to dream bigger," he said.

Drawing from his extensive experience in Kenya's creative sector, Dr. Mutua described the creative economy—including film, music, fashion, literature, art and digital content—as a powerful force capable of transforming culture and normalising women's leadership across Africa.

He commended the organisers of the Women Achievers Africa Conference for creating a platform that recognises women making significant contributions in business, public service, education, media, innovation and community development.

Dr. Mutua paid tribute to Women Achievers Africa Chairperson Betty Andera for her leadership in bringing together outstanding women from across the continent and acknowledged the achievements of Kenya Ambassador Kate Kien, saying such recognition inspires more women to pursue excellence.

He challenged the long-held perception that women compete against one another, saying the conference demonstrated the power of women supporting women.

"For far too long, women have been portrayed as enemies of other women. Tonight proves that women can celebrate one another, support one another and build a stronger Africa together," he said.

Dr. Mutua stressed that investing in women's leadership is an investment in Africa's prosperity.

"Supporting women in leadership is not a handout; it is an investment. Stronger institutions are built when women participate at the policy level. More resilient economies and safer societies emerge when women occupy positions of leadership. When women lead, communities thrive, and when men support, progress is accelerated," he said.

He called on governments, development partners, the private sector, media organisations and educational institutions to intentionally create opportunities that enable women to rise into leadership positions.

He also challenged journalists, filmmakers, authors, broadcasters and digital creators to tell stories that reflect women as capable leaders whose contributions deserve recognition.

"Let us continue building stories of leadership that uplift women, amplify their voices and share platforms so that every African girl knows she belongs at every table of power. The boardroom table is not the preserve of men. Our books, literature, films and broadcast content must tell that story," he said.

Dr. Mutua urged men to become active partners in advancing gender equality by mentoring women, speaking against discrimination, creating opportunities and supporting inclusive leadership.

"As men, we must show up, speak up, step aside when necessary and build institutions that allow women to lead. Together, we can reshape perceptions, transform our culture and realise the full promise of the African continent," he concluded.

The Women Achievers Africa Conference 2026 brought together women leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, diplomats, policymakers and young changemakers from across Africa to celebrate excellence, promote mentorship and advance conversations on inclusive leadership and sustainable development.