Editor's note

Kenya's progressive 2010 Constitution has led to improvements in the representation of women in parliament and public life. But it’s still no match for historical prejudices which shut out women even before the first vote is cast. Women candidates who dare stand for office endure ridicule, humiliation and physical violence, writes Beatrice Akala.

Africa’s health systems must change to cope with a dramatic rise in non-communicable diseases, like cancer. Neo Tapela explains why measuring the performance of health care systems is so important in making this happen. But this requires the use of technology and better data collection.

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A woman leaves a polling station after casting her vote during the 2013 Kenyan elections. Reuters/Goran Tomasevic

Election season offers a reminder that Kenya remains deeply sexist

Beatrice Akala, University of Johannesburg

Kenya's progressive 2010 Constitution brought improved women's representation in Parliament and public life. But historical prejudices remain, always more intensely apparent during elections.

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