Economic Inclusion for Women: A Game-Changer for Kenya’s Future

Nairobi, Kenya – Kenya’s economic growth cannot reach its full potential unless women are granted equal opportunities to participate in economic activities, the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has said. Speaking at the Kenya Population and Development Conference 2025 at the University of Nairobi, the Commission underscored the urgent need for gender-inclusive economic policies to drive national development.

Dr. Purity Ngina, Chief Executive Officer of NGEC, emphasized that women constitute 51% of Kenya’s population, yet persistent inequalities continue to hinder their full economic potential. Represented at the conference by Madam Josephine Kaguchia, Dr. Ngina stated that economic empowerment of women is not merely a social or moral obligation but an economic imperative.

“Kenya cannot afford to overlook the significant role women play in driving economic growth. Gender disparities in access to capital, employment opportunities, and resources must be addressed to ensure that women contribute fully to the country’s economic transformation,” she said.

The conference brought together policymakers, researchers, and development experts to explore the intersection of population dynamics and economic development. Discussions focused on key challenges such as gender wage gaps, access to credit for women entrepreneurs, and the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles across various sectors.

The NGEC has consistently advocated for genderresponsive economic policies, calling on the government to prioritise investments in women’s education, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship support programs. Madam Kaguchia reiterated that creating an enabling environment for women in business and employment is key to fostering sustainable development.

Key speakers gather for a group photo at the Population and Development Conference 2025.