While there is mounting evidence on the link between promoting women’s equality and economic empowerment and other development outcomes such as sustainable agricultural and economic growth, democratic governance, and gender issues as inadequately reflected in media programs.

In response to this, UN Women in collaboration with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) have partnered with Mediae Company to develop an edutainment (education and entertainment) initiative which seeks to create awareness and build capacity to achieve gender equality, close the gender gap and empowering women and girls.

Part of the Cast in the Makutano Junction TV series

The production of 13 TV soaps started in July 2015 dubbed “Makutano Junction”. Makutano Junction has had tremendous success within East Africa with a viewership of 10 million in East Africa, seven million of which are Kenyan and 57% being women.

The series will contain 13 episodes and document the achievement of women in areas such as women’s access to labor-saving technologies, land, credit and agricultural inputs. The initiative will also highlight women’s right and ability to control their incomes and will address stereotypes regarding men’s and women’s roles and responsibilities.

The series started airing on 14^th October on Citizen TV Network and will continue airing every Wednesday at 7:30 pm. Additional information will also be accessible on the company’s website. (http://www.mediae.org/)