Perceived Access to Policy Support Among Women in Surgical Training and Practice in Kenya
Surgical Work & Equity Lab
Research & Policy
Surgical Society of Kenya, 2026 — Jill Mayunga, Fridah Bosire
Presented on behalf of the Kenya Association of Women Surgeons (KAWS)
Background
The percentage of female surgical trainees has increased by 24% between 2020 and 2022, but less is known about the extent of actual access to supportive policies.
Objectives
To determine the perceived extent of policy support for women in surgery, uncover implementation gaps and determine the perceived benefits of reforms.
Methods
A cross-sectional mixed methods study was conducted and data was collected using Google forms distributed to attendees of a 'Women in surgery' event.
Results
Most respondents (80%) felt that current Kenyan policies do not adequately support female surgeons.
Conclusion
While policy reforms are known to promote equity in the surgical workforce, significant gaps remain in their development and implementation.