Hawa Abdi Sahal, has been ranked among Kenya’s Top 100 Most Influential Women during the 6th Edition of the Independent Kenya Women Awards (IKWA) 2026 held in Nairobi for Gender, Social Protection and Inclusive Leadership.
The annual gala, which recognises outstanding women leaders across all 47 counties, honoured influential figures in leadership, business, media, culture, and community development.
Hawa Abdi was awarded for her leadership in advancing gender equality, social protection, and inclusive community empowerment in Garissa County.
Speaking after receiving the award for Best CECM Gender, Social Protection & Inclusive Leadership Excellence, Hawa described the recognition as a reflection of collective efforts aimed at uplifting vulnerable communities and promoting meaningful inclusion.
“This award is not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the collective work being done to advance gender equality, social protection, and the empowerment of vulnerable groups in our communities,” she said.
Her recognition comes amid growing national attention on her work in tackling gender-based violence (GBV), promoting girls’ education, and challenging harmful cultural practices through community-led approaches.
Early marriage and traditional dispute resolution systems such as Maslah have historically hindered access to justice for GBV survivors in Garissa County. Maxam Hawa has championed culturally sensitive reforms by engaging elders, religious leaders, women groups, and youth champions in dialogue and advocacy.
Under her leadership, the Garissa Technical Working Group (GTWG), which brings together more than 100 state and non-state actors including the judiciary, police, healthcare workers, and civil society organisations, has strengthened response mechanisms for survivors of GBV.
The county has so far recorded eight successful GBV prosecutions, while more than 50 cases are currently before the courts, reflecting increasing confidence among survivors in seeking justice.
Hawa has also led initiatives focused on keeping girls in school by addressing poverty, early marriages, and social barriers that disproportionately affect girls in Northeastern Kenya.
Her efforts have earned praise for blending cultural sensitivity with bold advocacy, positioning her as one of the leading voices championing inclusive leadership and women’s empowerment in the region.
During the international Mothers Day celebrations, Hawa dedicated the recognition to women and girls whose resilience continues to inspire change across communities.
“Together, we will continue championing inclusive leadership and meaningful transformation for future generations,” she said.
