The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) has entered into a strategic partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to strengthen women-led small and medium enterprises (WSMEs) in Kenya. The collaboration was formalized during the launch of the SHE GROWS Programme in Nairobi, marking a major step toward advancing gender-inclusive economic growth.
The agreement was signed by Dr. Erick Rutto, President of KNCCI, and Marieme Niang, Africa Regional Gender Lead at IFC. The initiative seeks to break systemic barriers that have long limited women’s participation in the economy by enhancing access to finance, investment readiness, and business sustainability.
Implemented under IFC’s Gender and Economic Inclusion Department (GEID), the SHE GROWS Programme targets women-owned enterprises with an annual turnover of at least USD 1 million. The programme will offer technical advisory support, mentorship, and governance training to help these businesses scale up and attract investment.
Through this partnership, IFC will provide technical expertise and capacity building, while KNCCI will leverage its extensive national network to mobilize participants, engage stakeholders, and amplify visibility. Together, the institutions aim to mobilize over USD 50 million in capital and support at least 50 women-led SMEs, creating or sustaining more than 5,000 jobs—particularly for women and youth.
Speaking during the signing, Dr. Rutto said, “This partnership reflects KNCCI’s commitment to ensuring women are not just participants but drivers of Kenya’s economic transformation.”
Marieme Niang added, “IFC is proud to collaborate with KNCCI to advance gender-inclusive growth in Kenya. The SHE GROWS initiative will help women entrepreneurs access finance, attract investment, and integrate into global value chains.”
Beyond Kenya, IFC plans to pilot a similar initiative in Mozambique, underscoring its regional commitment to fostering inclusive prosperity and empowering women entrepreneurs across Africa.
