The Nyeri County Government has allocated over Sh180 million to support businesses led by women, in a bid to enhance economic empowerment and promote gender equity.
Launched in 2018, the Nyeri County Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities Programme aims to uplift marginalized groups by offering training and financial assistance to start or expand income-generating ventures. Since its inception, the initiative has benefited more than 2,300 women-led enterprises.
Governor Mutahi Kahiga emphasized that women are a vital part of the county’s economy, often working their farms and managing households while ensuring their children receive education. He reiterated that gender equity is a core aspect of his administration’s development goals, noting that sustainable economic growth is only possible when no one is left behind.
“Gender equity is not just a moral duty; it’s an economic imperative. Societies that marginalize women cannot expect inclusive or lasting progress,” said Kahiga during the Kenyatta University Women’s Economic Empowerment (KU-WEE) Hub Research Dissemination Workshop held in Nyeri town.
The governor highlighted various steps the county is taking to empower women, including improving access to credit, supporting women-led businesses, adopting gender-responsive budgeting, and investing in skills training.
Through a partnership with Nyeri National Polytechnic, the county offers certified digital marketing courses tailored for women. As a result, more than 500 young women have launched successful online ventures, capitalizing on e-commerce opportunities.
Governor Kahiga also introduced childcare as a key economic enabler. The county has launched subsidized daycare centres near markets and public offices, allowing young mothers to work without concern for their children’s safety.
Furthermore, the departments of Health and Economic Planning are collaborating to develop integrated approaches that balance women’s roles as both earners and caregivers. These include accessible reproductive healthcare services, mother-friendly workplace policies such as flexible hours and breastfeeding stations, and protections for maternity rights.
Kahiga concluded by affirming his commitment to eliminating stigma faced by young working mothers, especially those rejoining the workforce after childbirth.
