Breaking Barriers: Women’s Economic Empowerment Key to Kenya’s Growth

A dynamic panel discussion during the Kenya Economic Update brought together experts, including Dr. Joy Kiiru from the University of Nairobi, Dr. Jared Osoro of the Monetary Policy Committee, and Josephine Kagucia, Principal Research Officer at the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC). Moderated by Abha Prasad from the World Bank, the conversation explored how empowering women economically can ignite inclusive growth across Kenya. The panel emphasized the pervasive impact of early marriage and parenthood on women’s participation in the workforce and their earning potential. These barriers exacerbate the gender gap, limiting economic opportunities and the nation’s prosperity.

Josephine Kagucia highlighted the NGEC's pivotal role in addressing these systemic challenges, advocating for policies that dismantle socio-economic barriers for women. She called for intensified efforts to curb harmful practices and ensure access to education, vocational training, and resources for women and girls. With the discourse shedding light on practical solutions, the event underscored that advancing gender equality is not just a moral imperative but an economic necessity for Kenya's sustainable development.

NGEC's Josephine Kagucia (left) during the Kenya Economic Update panel discussion