- July 10, 2024
- Posted by: SUSAN KIAMBATI KALANGI
- Category: Theme 1 Policy Insight
Women in Kenya struggle to participate in the manufacturing sector due to limited access to resources, societal norms, and inflexible government policies. This study explored the challenges women face in manufacturing and proposed solutions for their economic empowerment. Overall, a multi-pronged approach is needed. Policy changes, educational programs, and cultural shifts are crucial to empower women in Kenyan manufacturing.
Key Findings:
- Women have limited control over household assets and income decisions.
- Business registration processes are complex and lack a centralized location.
- High taxes and county-to-county variations burden women-owned businesses.
- Gender stereotypes discourage women from pursuing STEM education and technical roles.
- Spousal control hinders women’s business growth.
Key policy Recommendations:
- Government:
- Raise awareness of opportunities for women in manufacturing.
- Simplify business registration with a one-stop shop.
- Offer tax breaks and incentives for women-owned businesses.
- Address the issue of cross-county taxation.
- Advocate for women’s control over household assets and decision-making.
- Promote STEM education for girls and women.
- Involve men as advocates for women’s empowerment.
- Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM):
- Encourage members to join the Women in Manufacturing (WIM) program.
- Refine the WIM program to strengthen women’s household decision-making power.
- Partner with gender specialists to design gender-inclusive programs.
These loopholes highlight the need for a comprehensive approach. Policies should empower women within households, address cultural barriers, simplify bureaucratic processes, and ensure genuine support from men.
Read complete study Report: EFFECTIVENESS OF WOMEN-IN-MANUFACTURING PROGRAM IN PROMOTING ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT FOR WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR IN KENYA (1)
Read Policy Brief: EFFECTIVENESS OF WIM PROGRAM IN PROMOTING WEE IN KENYA