Over 2,300 women-led businesses in Nyeri County have received a significant financial boost following the disbursement of over Sh180 million by the county government. Governor Mutahi Kahiga announced the funding during the official opening of the Kenyatta University Women’s Economic Empowerment (KU-WEE) Hub Research Dissemination Workshop in Nyeri town.
The initiative is part of the Nyeri County Women, Youth and Persons with Disability programme, launched in 2018 to uplift vulnerable groups through training and financial support for income-generating activities. The programme focuses on promoting gender equity by creating economic opportunities for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
“Gender equity is not only a moral obligation. It is an economic necessity,” said Governor Kahiga. “A society that sidelines half its population cannot hope to achieve inclusive growth, social cohesion, or long-term prosperity.”
The governor emphasized that women are the backbone of the economy, particularly in agriculture and household management, and play a critical role in educating future generations. His administration has therefore placed gender equity at the core of its development agenda.
Among the key measures taken include expanding access to credit, promoting women-led enterprises, reforming budgeting processes to be gender-inclusive, and investing in skills development. One such partnership with Nyeri National Polytechnic has seen over 500 young women trained in digital marketing, enabling them to thrive in the e-commerce space.
Recognizing the challenges faced by working mothers, the county has also piloted subsidized childcare centres near markets and government offices. These centres allow women to engage in economic activities while ensuring their children are well cared for.
Governor Kahiga further noted that departments of Health and Economic Planning are working together to support women’s dual roles as caregivers and earners. Investments are being made in reproductive health services, flexible workplace policies, breastfeeding stations, and protections for working mothers.
He concluded by affirming his administration’s commitment to breaking stigma around young working mothers and creating an inclusive economic environment where all women can thrive.
