Harriet Chiggai Graces the “She’s Next” Finals Empowered By Visa
The Office of the President’s Advisor on Women’s Rights, Harriet Chiggai, has lauded Kenyan women for their contribution in the Kenyan economy despite the challenges in the entrepreneurship sector.
Speaking during the She’s Next Finals event empowered by Visa, Chiggai noted that the platform presents practical support to women-owned enterprises based on the next dream level of their businesses.
“Kenya boasts a vibrant network of women-led businesses. From bustling markets overflowing with handcrafted goods to innovative tech startups. Women’s contributions to the economy are undeniable. They undeniably are innovators, problem solvers, and natural-born leaders” She added
Harriet Chiggai Graces the “She’s Next” Finals Empowered By Visa
Kenya has demonstrated to be amongst the fastest growing economies. This growth is largely attributed to the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector. It employs about 80 percent of the country’s total employees outside of agriculture.
KNBS indicates that 31.4 percent of the licensed Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya are women owned. In addition, 61percent of all unlicensed SMEs are also owned
by women. Thus, one can safely say that Kenya’s economy thrives on the contributions of SMEs, specifically women-owned businesses.
Why do female entrepreneurs in Kenya perform poorly in comparison to their male counterparts?
In her speech, Chiggai notes that womens poor track record has been attributed to multiple factors such as lack of affordable credit, heavier burden of the care work, gender bias and lack of social capital.
Additionally, balancing business with family commitments often stifles their entrepreneurial spirit and traps them in cycles of poverty.
On gender bias, a report by the International Finance Corporation caught my eye. It indicates,sadly, that Bank officials in Kenya often discriminate against female business owners.
They reportedly ignore them in meetings, preferring instead to speak to their husbands or their male business partners preferring instead to speak to their husbands or their male business partners.
Different report also explain that female entrepreneurs often feel intimidated by the negative attitudes and harassment of Government officials (Ellis 2007). The women are thus afraid to navigate the complex bureaucratic process required for registration oftheir businesses. This explains the huge number of women-owned MSMEs recorded as being in
the informal sector in Kenya.
“It is thus gratifying to note that the She’s Next programme understands these challenges. It has zeroed in on the gap, bringing funding, training and mentorship solutions to women-owned businesses. Your decision to add Kenya to the ten other countries you currently run the programme in, is exciting and a game changer for local businesses.” Implored Chiggai
The Ksh. 400 million support to create an inclusive, equitable world where women business owners flourish, is highly commendable.
The same should be increased in order for us to realize our 8 million target in leveraging women on economic empowerment and investment.
Through this funding, you provide the resources women need to turn their dreams into reality. Training empowers them with the knowledge and skills to navigate the intricacies of business. And mentorship connects them with experienced leaders who offer guidance and support.
“Today as we hold the inaugural She’s Next grant competition in Kenya, it is inspiring to note that over 2,300 women entrepreneurs from different sectors applied for a chance to receive the grants.” She added
Contribution of Government to gender inclusivity and women economic empowerment
For the first time, the Office of the Women Rights Advisor to the President was created.
It is to drive the conversation of inclusivity plus women and girls’ empowerment.
This unprecedented but strategic move has already borne major fruits for women across different sectors.
“My Office has partnered, and continues to collaborate with all stakeholders to keep this conversation alive. This is geared towards bringing about meaningful change to the lives of Kenyan women and girls.” Said Chiggai
The Constitution of Kenya marks an important precedent in addressing women’s empowerment.
Harriet Chiggai Graces the “She’s Next” Finals Empowered By Visa
It avails principles that guide resource allocation and equal opportunities for women and men.
Gender equality and women’s empowerment is emphasized in the constitution, providing a powerful framework for addressing gender equality and promotion of women’s empowerment.
Both the Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda and the Kenya Vision 2030 outline financial support to women.
Busu Naturals, an SME that manufactures local emollients which cater to sensitive African skin, was named the winner of the She’s Next Kenya Grant Competition, a program aimed at supporting the creation of an inclusive, equitable world where women business owners can flourish. It seeks to support women-owned small businesses through funding, training, and mentorship.
Harriet Chiggai Graces the “She’s Next” Finals Empowered By Visa
While congratulating all the winners Chiggai said “Dear women: We see you. We believe in you.This is your moment. Do not let self-doubt hold you back. She’s Next is here to champion your journey. For the successful applicants, embrace the training, access the funding, and seek out mentors who have walked the path before you.”
More about visa https://africabusinessnews.co.ke/3-lucky-ncba-visa-cardholders-win-a-once-in-a-lifetime-experience-courtesy-of-visa/
