Kenyatta University Women's Economic Empowerment Hub

10 July 2024 · Theme 3 Policy Insight

  • July 10, 2024
  • Posted by: SUSAN KIAMBATI KALANGI
  • Category: Theme 3 Policy Insight
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This is a descriptive report based on data from the full household survey conducted in Tharaka Nithi County in May-June 2022. The study examines women’s livelihoods, psychosocial wellbeing, childcare duties, and labour force participation. This is a sequel to the project’s year-two report prepared in September 2021 on the basis of a pilot survey conducted in the same County.

Key Findings:

  • Crop farming is the dominant activity, followed by animal keeping, casual labor, and small businesses.
  • Agriculture and casual labor provide low income despite demanding significant time.
  • Businesses and formal employment offer better income but are less accessible due to low education.
  • Unpaid domestic work and childcare consume a large portion of women’s time.
  • Most women lack post-primary education, limiting their employment options.

Policy Loopholes and Issues:

  • Lack of investment in women’s education limits their economic participation.
  • Limited access to financing hinders women’s business growth in agriculture and other sectors.
  • Absence of childcare support restricts women’s ability to engage in market activities.

Recommendations for Policymakers:

  • Allocate resources to expand post-primary education opportunities for women.
  • Design a microfinance program specifically targeting women entrepreneurs in agriculture and small businesses.
  • Develop a childcare support system, such as daycare centers, to address childcare burdens.

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The KU-WEE Hub Project aims to ensure that interested parties such as relevant ministries and departments, county governments policy leaders (legislators and policy makers) implementing agencies and donors utilize policy evidence to shape policies, programs, interventions, and advocacy efforts related to supporting women’s economic empowerment (WEE) in Kenya.

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