The Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) report, Fifteen Years On: An Evaluation of Kenya’s Women Political Representation in Relation to the Two-Thirds Gender Rule, provides a troubling assessment. It reveals a network of barriers: a patriarchal political culture, filled with violence and intimidation against women candidates; parties that overlook women during nominations; and prohibitively high campaign costs that financially exclude them. These systemic issues have hindered progress, turning constitutional goals into ongoing exclusion.

Kenya’s situation is even more pronounced when compared to other countries in the region. While our multi-party democracy is vibrant, we lag our East African neighbours in actual gender representation. Rwanda leads globally at 61% after the 2024 elections, Tanzania remains at 37.4%, and Uganda at 34.1%. The difference lies in their move from hopeful ideals to strong systems like minimum 30% quotas written into law, special electoral colleges in Rwanda, and performance-linked proportional lists in Tanzania. Kenya’s competitive model seems admirable, but without strict enforcement, it offers more illusion than reality.

The AMWIK report outlines a clear path and a strategy to compliance to the ‘two-thirds’ in due course. To move the needle, Parliament must pass laws that combine direct elections with reserved seats, particularly at the county level. It should also advocate for gender-balanced tickets for presidential and gubernatorial races, ensuring running mates of the opposite gender.

Firstly, the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) should link party funding to gender-responsive nomination rules, supported by penalties for non-compliance. Additionally, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) should enforce these rules as conditions for elections. To eliminate financial barriers, the IEBC needs to set limits on nomination fees and campaign spending, while Parliament should strengthen swift justice against gender-based political violence.

Women themselves can play a crucial role in shifting the balance. The report indicates that more women running for office leads to better outcomes, especially when candidates consistently run in the same constituency to boost visibility.

Aspiring candidates should strategically use digital and mainstream media to counter biased narratives that focus on traditional societal roles instead of leadership skills. Clear guidelines for gender-responsive coverage that highlight manifestos and qualifications would enhance this effort, making media a powerful tool in elections.

The 2027 election represents the next test of our constitution. Leaders, political parties, and electoral bodies must commit to making the Two-Thirds Principle a priority, transforming Kenya from a place of high expectations to one of real inclusivity.

The AMWIK Report is available here

Queenter Mbori is the Executive Director, AMWIK and Founder of WoKN

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The media has always reflected Kenya’s triumphs and struggles. It plays a crucial role in protecting democracy from the grassroots to the national level. As Canadian philosopher Marshall McLuhan said, “the media is an extension of ourselves,” influencing how we understand society and hold those in power accountable. This responsibility is even more significant during tense times such as conflict, disasters, and elections, when public trust and the future of democracy rely on timely, accurate, and unbiased reporting.  

Kenya’s media journey is tied to its democratic development. From colonial-era repression, when the press was heavily controlled to serve state interests, to the growth of radio and print after independence, Kenyan media gradually became the people’s voice. During single-party rule, the government used strict censorship. However, with the liberal changes in the 1990s and the constitutional reforms of 2010, a new chapter began.

The 2010 constitution established media freedom in Article 34, banning state interference and guaranteeing independence for the first time. This progress has enabled the press to report the facts and serve as a foundation for democratic checks and balances. However, restrictive laws and practices remain, making the fight for true press freedom ongoing, especially during political contests.

Technological progress has accelerated changes in the media landscape. Kenya’s 2015 digital migration led to rapid growth, resulting in over 182 TV stations, 135 radio stations, 38 print houses, and dozens of strong online outlets by 2025. Mobile phones and social media have made sharing information easier, giving urban and rural communities quick access to news and different viewpoints. Thus, the media has become vital to national discussions, crisis reporting, and democratic engagement, despite ongoing threats from both state and non-state actors.

With these changes, the risks for journalists have increased. The Media Council of Kenya reported over 50 cases of violations of journalists’ safety and security in 2025. The rise in violence during the Finance Bill protests of 2024, when more than 40 journalists were injured, shows the dangerous environment for those reporting news. As political tensions rise with the approaching 2027 elections, these threats are likely to increase unless they are addressed proactively.

The safety of female journalists is particularly concerning. Their numbers and presence in national and local media have increased, with more women taking on leadership and reporting roles. Yet, they face a higher risk, dealing not only with common threats like assault and intimidation but also with gender-based violence, including sexual harassment, threats of sexual violence, and persistent online abuse.

According to AMWIK’s 2024 report on Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV), over 60% of women journalists surveyed reported online harassment. The research shows that technology and social media can amplify voices but also target women for silencing. “This emerging violence undermines the participation of women journalists in public discussions, threatening democracy itself,” notes the AMWIK report.

The dedication and resilience of Kenya’s female journalists, which is sometimes overlooked, has shaped public debate on important topics, from social justice to legislative changes. Their safety is not just about individual well-being but about maintaining the credibility and inclusivity of our democracy.  

To move forward, we need urgent interventions. This includes targeted training in gender-sensitive and election reporting, better safety measures for both physical and online environments, quick support for journalists in danger, and mental health care to address rising stress issues recently highlighted when NTV’s Brygettes Ngana won the Journalist of the Year award.

We must prioritize improved accreditation, better access to election data, and consistent legal reforms to address online and offline attacks. Media stakeholders, government, and civil society must work together to protect the hard-won gains of press freedom and ensure an inclusive media future.  

Finally, Kenya is not immune to broader regional threats. The situation in Tanzania, where media suppression and internet shutdowns limited transparency during elections, serves as a warning. Kenya must build resilience, strengthen accountability, and ensure that no journalist, especially women, is silenced or pushed aside in their mission to report the truth.  

As 2027 nears, we must invest urgently and thoughtfully in the safety of our journalists. Our democracy, our voice, and our future depend on it.  

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Research from the Association of Media Women in Kenya in 2024 titled “An Investigation on the Prevalence of Technology Facilitated Gender Based Violence Against Women with Prominent Public Lives” found that over half of the women journalists surveyed had experienced gendered online abuse. Digital attacks often coincide with major news cycles and coordinated campaigns.

This violence takes many forms, including smear campaigns, stalking, altered images, and planned online threats. The anonymity and the wide reach of the internet make these attacks more severe. The research also showed gaps in the current legal frameworks and remedies as they have struggled to keep up, leaving many victims with few options.

In response, AMWIK developed Kenya’s first Safety and Security Handbook for journalists. This handbook offers practical digital safety strategies and advocates for survivor-focused solutions.  Beyond the handbook, comic strips, podcasts, and mental health advocacy have been instrumental in raising awareness and building resilience among journalists, young people, and community leaders.

However, as digital threats increase, national policies have attempted to catch up. Recently, President William Ruto signed the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024 into law. This law expands state powers to tackle cybercrime, introducing stricter penalties for cyber harassment, explicit content, and online fraud.

For survivors of TFGBV, the promise of a crackdown on digital abuse seems like a positive development, but with serious concerns about vague definitions and the broad authority given to the National Computer and Cybercrimes Coordination Committee (NC4). This committee can now order the removal or blocking of digital content without needing explicit court approval.

This authority, without clear judicial oversight, can easily be misused to silence legitimate dissent and journalism. It is particularly concerning given the law’s unclear standards about “false, misleading or fictional data” and “offensive” content. With potential penalties reaching KSh 20 million or 10 years in prison, many reporters now face a real threat of self-censorship or prosecution for producing work that exposes political corruption or holds leaders accountable.

For women, the situation is even more complicated. While stricter penalties for cyber harassment recognize the reality of TFGBV, the language in the law is not explicitly focused on survivors.  Without clear definitions and trauma-informed enforcement, women activists and journalists who speak out could become targets for counterclaims, victim-blaming, or legal retaliation from their abusers.

As Kenya’s digital landscape evolves, the fight against technology-facilitated gendered violence and disinformation requires more than just new laws. There is a need for more partnerships between media, government, civil society, and technology platforms to monitor online harm, share resources, and develop quick, rights-based responses. There is also a need for improved digital and media literacy, empowering communities to recognize, resist, and report TFGBV and gendered disinformation. Additionally, we support judicial reform and law enforcement training to ensure that the law protects rather than punishes survivors while upholding media freedom.

Mental health support is also essential in the digital space, with the need to access counseling and peer support, because the unseen mental wounds can be just as harmful as public attacks.

As we observe the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, it is vital to acknowledge the increasing risks that women face in Kenya’s newsrooms and public spaces. The challenge is urgent, especially as Kenya approaches another election cycle.

Technology should amplify, not silence voices of women in journalism.

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If I dare to say, “I’m in too much pain to function,” the response is predictable: a shrug, a chuckle, or that tired line “That’s normal. All women go through it.”

And that’s the real problem. Pain has been recast as ordinary. Women’s suffering is not only dismissed it’s glorified. We’re handed a cultural crown of thorns and told to wear it with pride, as though endurance itself were our crowning achievement.

The Medical Gaslighting

The first betrayal often happens in the doctor’s office. Historically, women’s pain has been minimized, doubted, or outright ignored. One study found that women wait 33% longer than men to receive pain medication in emergency rooms. It’s not just a delay it’s disbelief.

This disbelief is devastating when applied to reproductive health:

• Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea): Around 80% of women experience menstrual pain; up to 15% suffer pain so severe it disrupts work or school. Yet the advice is often reductive “Take painkiller, it’s just cramps.” This easy dismissal not only normalizes unnecessary suffering but also hides conditions like endometriosis.
• Endometriosis: Affecting 1 in 10 women globally, this condition can cause agonizing pain and infertility. Yet diagnosis takes an average of 7 to 10 years in many countries. Seven years of being told it’s “just stress” or “bad periods.” Seven years of pain treated as imaginary.
• PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome): Another 1 in 10 women battle this condition, with symptoms ranging from irregular cycles to chronic pelvic pain. Many see three or more doctors before diagnosis, enduring years of uncertainty.
• Fibroids: Affecting up to 70% of women by age 50, fibroids cause heavy bleeding, back pain, and anemia. Still, many are told to simply “manage it” until the pain becomes unbearable.

This is not medicine it’s gaslighting drapped in white coats.

The Heroism of “Showing Up”

We admire women who grit their teeth through pain as though it’s a badge of honor. The colleague who attends a meeting pale and sweating is hailed as “dedicated.” The mother who juggles child care while recovering from a C-section is “superhuman.”

But what we’re really applauding is their ability to suppress pain. We’ve built a culture where silence equals strength, and asking for relief equals weakness.

To admit, “I can’t work today, I’m doubled over with cramps,” risks judgment: lazy, unreliable, dramatic. And so we push through. We suffer in silence. We wear our pain as armor because that’s what society demands.

Motherhood: Pain as Proof of Love

No discussion of normalized pain is complete without childbirth and postpartum recovery. Labor is one of the most painful experiences a human body can endure, but it’s often romanticized as “natural” and “beautiful.” Pain relief is seen as optional, even indulgent.

And then comes postpartum. Up to 36% of women report severe pain in the first 72 hours after delivery, with many struggling for weeks. Yet they’re expected to host visitors, breastfeed, keep the house together, and return to work often without adequate medical or emotional support.

The fourth trimester is one of the most overlooked phases of women’s health. Instead of care and rest, mothers get platitudes: “That’s just how it is.”

The Cult of Resilience

This is the paradox: women are celebrated for resilience, but that celebration keeps them chained to suffering. To show up in pain is “inspiring.” To demand recognition of that pain is “complaining.”

But resilience should not mean tolerance of neglect. Stoicism is not strength; it is survival in a system designed to ignore you.

Breaking the Silence

It’s time to dismantle this narrative:

1. Believe Women: A woman’s testimony about her pain must be enough to warrant investigation and care.
2. Invest in Research: For decades, women’s health has been underfunded. Closing the gender pain gap requires more than sympathy it needs resources.
3. Change Work Culture: Workplaces should normalize conversations about menstruation, postpartum recovery, and reproductive health without stigma.
4. Reject Pain as Heroism: Stop praising women for enduring pain. Start asking why they have to.

Conclusion: Laying Down the Crown

Every month, I drag myself out of bed, push through the pain, and show up because that’s what’s expected. But showing up doesn’t mean the suffering is acceptable.

The crown of thorns society places on women bleed, ache, endure, repeat was never a gift. It’s a burden we should refuse to carry. A woman’s worth is not in how much she can endure in silence, but in her right to live without unnecessary suffering.

It’s time we stop applauding women for surviving pain and start building a world where they don’t have to.

The post The Crown of Thorns: Why Women’s Pain Is Normalized and Praised appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

Despite government bans and awareness campaigns, poverty and entrenched cultural traditions remain the leading drivers of early marriages and underage pregnancies in the region.

Schools Struggle as Teenage Pregnancies Rise

Teachers in Tana River have expressed deep concern about the increasing number of teenage mothers in classrooms. A local secondary school headteacher explained that many girls in both lower and upper secondary classes are either married off or pregnant, forcing them to drop out.

“With a toddler to take care of, it takes extraordinary resilience for these girls to concentrate on studies,” he said. “Sadly, many end up ridiculed by classmates and society, which makes their situation even worse.”

The headteacher lamented that while communities openly shame young mothers, the men responsible for the pregnancies often escape accountability.

Cultural Defenders Insist on Tradition

Not everyone in the county views child marriage as a problem. Local elder Ibrahim Mamba defended the practice, describing it as a cultural norm that has been practiced for generations.

“Mwacha mila ni mtumwa,” he said, meaning one who abandons culture is a slave. According to Mamba, many girls deliberately get pregnant when school life becomes too difficult. “Instead of idling, it is better for them to marry, even if it means marrying older men,” he argued.

This perspective, however, has drawn sharp criticism from leaders and activists who believe culture should never be used to justify exploitation.

King Divayu Speaks Against FGM and Early Marriage

King Babisani Ramadhan Divayu, leader of the Wailwana community in Tana River, has strongly spoken out against child marriage and FGM. He revealed that, traditionally, girls are introduced to marriage discussions as early as 10 years old, often just before undergoing FGM.

He explained that early marriages are sometimes arranged casually when women fetching water or firewood agree to marry off their children in order to cement friendships.

“This disrupts the education of both the boy and the girl, some as young as grade three or six,” the king said. “Once public ceremonies are held, their concentration in school drops completely.”

The king emphasized that many families, driven by poverty, marry off daughters for as little as KSh 5,000, effectively trading their future for survival.

FGM: An Un-Islamic and Harmful Practice

King Divayu also condemned FGM, describing it as “an un-Islamic and unacceptable curse.” He said it is a false belief that circumcision reduces girls’ sexual desire.

Instead, he noted, the practice exposes women to life-threatening childbirth complications, with some dying during delivery.

Community elder Kantona Dadosa added that, in traditional setups, uncut girls were considered unclean. However, many educated families have started marrying outside the community to avoid marrying girls who have undergone the cut.

Education Crisis Deepens in Tana River

The consequences of these practices are visible in education statistics. A Tana Smart survey shows that out of a population of 315,000, about 86,907 are of school-going age. However, only 51,789 children attend the county’s 200 primary schools.

The county also suffers from a 40 percent dropout rate and a 48 percent transition rate to secondary school. Girls are the most affected, with many dropping out from grade five due to early marriage, pregnancies, or social pressures.

“Poverty and culture are robbing us of an educated generation,” King Divayu said.

Government Crackdown on Offenders

Tana River County Commissioner David Koskei has directed chiefs, assistant chiefs, and village elders to act swiftly against perpetrators of child marriage and FGM.

“The secrecy around these practices and the refusal of parents to cooperate with authorities must be dealt with from the grassroots,” Koskei said.

He urged stakeholders to strengthen public awareness campaigns and push for more investment in education, healthcare, and infrastructure to break the cycle.

Civil Society Called to Support Change

Despite the efforts of local leaders and administrators, challenges remain. The Wailwana Council of Elders, led by King Divayu, has been sensitizing communities about the dangers of child marriage, teenage pregnancy, and FGM.

However, the king admitted progress is slow due to deep cultural roots and widespread poverty. He appealed to civil society organizations, NGOs, and development partners to step in and support community-led interventions.

“We need all hands on deck,” the king said. “Ending these practices is not just about laws it’s about changing mindsets and giving our children a chance at education.

This article was written by Dennis Ochieng Ndiewo

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Well, statistically, it has been found that more women than men suffer from mental illness. However, this has been attributed to the fact that women are more outspoken about their problems while men are trammeled with societal expectations of exhibiting stoicism, which is generally embedded in hegemonic masculinity. This makes it difficult for them to show vulnerability, which is deemed weak. But empirically speaking, yes, women in Kenya have been found to suffer more from mental issues, especially mood disorders.

In my opinion, the causes of mental illnesses are not exclusively gender biased. For instance, genetics, substance use, traumas, and even hormonal imbalance have been associated with the etiology of mental illnesses in both genders. Of course, we can’t be oblivious to the fact that hormonal imbalances/ fluctuations do occur more in women, hence the reported higher rates in mood disorders. As previously mentioned, the other plausible explanation for the notably poorer mental health among women as compared to men is women’s presumed ease in vocalizing their mental health concerns.

As we work to support women’s mental health, how can friends, colleagues, and others help?

Friends, colleagues, and other people can help by initially destigmatizing mental illness. I believe the perception held by most people, despite considerable growth in knowledge and awareness about mental health/ wellness, makes it difficult for women to come forward when they need support. This is because mental illness is still regarded as strange/bizarre.  For women who self-stigmatize, a supportive social environment can be the first step towards recovery and wellness. 

What’s your take on seeking therapy even when there are no apparent mental health issues?

The question is, can we say that there is no mental health issue? Any issue that considerably affects how you think, feel, and behave (meaning there’s a slight deviation from the norm) should be considered as something affecting your mental health. Now, that doesn’t mean that it has to be associated with or stemming from a psychopathology/ disorder, but it could mean that you need therapy to navigate it. So, yes, it is important to seek therapy to understand issues that might be causing distress, discomfort, and not necessarily depression, for example. Sometimes, new things that are causing feelings like extreme joy can warrant booking a session with your therapist. New ventures like getting married, starting a business, or deciding to have a baby might need a session with your therapist. It depends on the individual and how they navigate issues.

Regular Mental wellness checks are always good for a woman’s overall mental well-being.

This article was written by Dr. Sylvia Raywe, Consultant Clinical Psychologist at Integrative & Holistic Hospital – Karen.

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It’s routine work, but vital. These women are the backbone of Kenya’s informal sector, which contributes 35% to the national GDP.

Behind this daily enterprise lies a brutal truth. Despite their resilience, many women remain trapped in a persistent cycle of financial exploitation. Each year, billions of shillings are lost to corruption, predatory lending practices, and illicit financial flows. Whether through routine bribes, high-interest digital loans, or exclusion from formal banking services, women in the informal sector face systemic barriers that drain not only their earnings but also their potential to grow and thrive.

Claudine, Head of Business Banking for SMES at Equity Bank Kawangware, notes that many women in informal trade remain outside formal banking not by choice but due to systemic barriers.

“They’re often unable to meet basic requirements like minimum balances or collateral,” she explains. 

“Even those with thriving businesses lack things such as a minimum bank balance to access loans, car log books, title deeds, or formal business registration. That locks them out of credit and the safety of formal financial systems.”

“Many are stuck in ‘chamas’, leading them to lack money to deposit in the bank.” She adds.

They are not just traders but mothers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. They are the backbone of Kenya’s economy. But the question remains: when will the system stop working against them?

The Silent Tax: Bribery and Extortion in Informal Trade

For many women in Kenya’s informal economy, paying bribes has become routine; it is simply the cost of doing business.

Traders in open-air markets often reserve a portion of their daily earnings to “secure” their spaces from county officials or to pay middlemen who assert control over market territories. Sometimes, they also make payments to avoid harassment from police and other enforcement officers. These transactions occur off the books, lack receipts, and are unpredictable.

“They come every week, and whether you’ve made sales or not, you must pay something or they’ll threaten to close down your stall. Sometimes we even borrow just to give them,” said Irene Vugutsa, a trader in Kawangware market. 

A Transparency International report shows that women in informal trade are especially vulnerable to corruption. This is mainly because they work in public spaces where enforcement officers, who are rarely held accountable, exploit their visibility and lack legal protection. Many women recount stories of paying multiple levies to county officers, (”I face constant harassment from local authorities. The city council collects money weekly, and if I don’t have it, they threaten to shut down my stall or fine me. It’s exhausting, and it puts a massive strain on my finances. I often have to borrow just to cover the bribes and still manage to feed my family and pay business rent,” shared Kavindu, a vegetable vendor in Kawangware.), local law enforcers, and even organised groups masquerading as market regulators.

At the Kenya-Uganda border, a study by Sauti and GIACE revealed that 56% of women traders experience corruption daily, while 81% encounter it monthly. Police were cited as the primary offenders in 47% of cases, followed by revenue officials at 18%.

A report from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission estimates that informal traders lose Ksh. 238 billion annually to bribery and extortion, of which Ksh. 119 billion is lost by women.

“Yes, the city council collects money weekly. Sometimes, you have nothing at hand to give them, and they end up threatening you.” Anita, a vegetable vendor in the Kabiria area, Nairobi, states.

“ It causes financial strain… It affects my business since I can’t borrow beyond a certain limit due to outstanding debts.” Kavindu adds.

For many, the cost is not only financial. Those who refuse to comply face threats, confiscation of goods, and even gender-based harassment. Intimidation keeps them in constant fear and insecurity, hindering their ability to grow beyond mere survival.

The Dark Side of Digital Lending

To the unsuspecting clients, mobile loan apps offer a lifeline. With a smartphone and a few taps, women traders can access quick loans to restock goods, cover emergencies, or pay rent. But what seems like a financial cushion is often a trap lined with hidden fees, unrealistic repayment timelines, and punishing interest rates.

In the last decade, Kenya has seen an explosion of over 120 digital lending platforms, offering instant credit without the need for collateral. However, many of these loans come with annual interest rates as high as 400%. Borrowers often borrow from one app to pay off another, sinking deeper into a cycle of debt.

“I have used them before,” Nancy,  a hairdresser in Kawangware, explains. “The experience wasn’t good because of the threatening messages they sent and the short repayment deadlines.”

“You end up borrowing from one app to pay for the other. Before you know it, you’re blacklisted on CRB.” her collegue added.

Joseph Kairu, a financial expert at ABSA Bank, draws attention to a more insidious issue: the link between some digital lending apps and fraudulent behaviour.

“We’ve seen a rise in cases where unregulated apps don’t just exploit borrowers, they also pose cybersecurity risks,” he explains. “Some apps harvest personal data without consent, access contact lists, and can even plant spyware. These practices border on financial fraud and data breaches, and many users aren’t aware of the risks until it’s too late.”

He adds that without strict regulation and digital accountability, vulnerable groups, particularly women in informal trade, become easy targets for exploitation not only financially, but also digitally.

Alice, a second-hand clothes Dealer in Kabiria, Nairobi, shared how the system has trapped her deeper into debt:

“I took loans from a digital lending app,” also, “because I couldn’t afford to buy a smartphone in cash. So I went for a loan phone offer, but now I’m paying nearly three times more than I should. The interest rates are crazy and quite exploitative to small business owners like me.”

According to Financial Sector Deepening Kenya (FSD Kenya), a key challenge is financial literacy. Most borrowers don’t understand compound interest, hidden fees, or the terms that govern digital credit. Others aren’t aware of their rights or how to report exploitative behaviour.

Anthony Munyao, the Marketing Manager at SMEP Microfinance Bank, offers a perspective from within the financial industry. He notes that while regulation is slowly taking shape, especially with interventions from the Central Bank of Kenya, the digital lending space still operates with minimal oversight.

“It’s not that these platforms are entirely unregulated; regulation is evolving, but the digital credit sector has grown so fast that enforcement hasn’t caught up,” he explains. “Some lenders capitalize on emotional vulnerability. They know borrowers are desperate and uninformed, and that’s where exploitation thrives. Without accessible financial education and strong consumer protection, many, especially women, end up in cycles of stress, debt, and social harm.”

Claudine adds that while products like Fanikisha are designed to offer women-friendly digital lending options, adoption has been slow.

“We’ve seen that digital literacy is still a major gap. Many women are afraid to use apps because they don’t fully understand the terms. Without education and support, these tools become just another trap,” she says.

The lack of regulation means many lenders use aggressive tactics like contacting family members, employers, or clients to shame borrowers into repayment, a violation of privacy that causes emotional and social harm.

The Link Between Informality and Illicit Financial Flows

Kenya’s informal economy is extensive but predominantly operates outside formal systems. This obscured nature is not solely a consequence of informality; it also contributes to the prevalence of illicit financial flows (IFFS).

Financial exclusion forces women to depend on unregulated lenders and cash-based transactions, which are hard to monitor and tax. Women frequently face barriers when trying to access banking services, such as high minimum balance requirements for their accounts, the need for collateral, or the necessity of formally registering their businesses.

“Informality isn’t a sign of incompetence; it’s often the result of exclusion,” Claudine states. “The current system is not designed to recognize informal women entrepreneurs as legitimate. Until we fix that, they’ll keep operating in the shadows.”

This invisibility allows large suppliers in the informal economy to evade taxes, further weakening public resources. Government funds that could improve access to credit or offer business training are lost, leaving women traders to fend for themselves.

Corruption only worsens these financial leakages. When daily fees are paid as bribes instead of through official systems, the money ends up in shadow economies instead of contributing to national development.

Breaking the Cycle: The Need for Policy Reform

A multi-pronged strategy is needed to address the complex challenges facing Kenya’s informal economy and digital lending space. This includes enforcing regulations on digital lenders to cap interest rates, ensure transparent repayment terms, and penalize harassment, as outlined in the Central Bank of Kenya’s Digital Credit Providers Regulations 2021. According to the GIACE report, County governments should combat corruption in informal markets by eliminating illegal levies, digitizing payments, and holding corrupt officials accountable. Financial inclusion must be boosted by developing affordable, accessible credit tailored to informal traders without collateral or registration, as stated in a study by Mercy Corps. 

Claudine emphasizes the importance of intentional onboarding and support.

“You can’t just build products and expect women to come. We have to engage with them, build trust, explain options clearly, and offer solutions that match their income patterns,” she says.

“Financial literacy must go hand in hand with access, it’s the only way to create lasting inclusion.”

“Women, especially those in low-income and informal sectors, often lack access to accurate financial information. Strengthening financial literacy can empower them to make informed decisions, avoid over-indebtedness, and assert their consumer rights.”  Stated in the FSD Kenya report. 

Finally, the Deloitte Policy Analysis suggests that formalizing informal businesses through tax breaks and simplified registration can help integrate them into the formal economy. 

The women of Kenya’s informal economy strive to do their best. They work hard, support their families, and generate billions in economic value. But despite their contributions, they remain on the margins, exploited, ignored, and overburdened.

While institutions such as Equity Bank and Mercy Corps focus on onboarding and education, others emphasize the need for broader systemic change.

“Digital lending in Kenya grew faster than regulation could keep up,” says Anthony. “In the rush to fill credit gaps, oversight lagged behind innovation. Now, we’re seeing the consequences of exorbitant rates, privacy violations, and deepening debt cycles. Regulation must catch up, but so must our efforts to reach those being left behind.”

As one trader stated,

“I’m struggling to feed my family and pay business rent. I want to grow, but these debts, high taxes, and bribes hold me back.”

The fight for justice in Kenya’s informal economy concerns not only money but dignity, security, and the right to thrive.

Kenya’s future rests on the backs of its women traders. The question now is: Will the system continue to fail them, or will it finally rise to protect them?

CREDIT: “The project received support from the Thomson Reuters Foundation through the Media Foundation for West Africa, as part of its global work aiming to strengthen free, fair and informed societies. Any financial assistance or support provided to the journalist has no editorial influence. The content of this article belongs solely to the author and is not endorsed by or associated with the Thomson Reuters Foundation, Thomson Reuters, Reuters, nor any other affiliates”.

The post Women in the Informal Sector are Vital to Kenya’s Economy, Yet They Lose Billions Due to Corruption appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

They hosted an event themed ‘Empowering Women in Waste Management’ that went beyond the usual expected symbolic gestures, directly addressing the challenges faced by women working in informal settlements. This initiative, centered around the ‘Sikiliza Sauti Yetu, Dunia Inaita! (SSY)’ project, highlighting how addressing climate change can simultaneously unlock economic opportunities for women. 

A core focus of the event was to dismantle the stigma surrounding women in waste management, emphasizing the vital role they play in Nairobi’s environmental health. While speaking to Doddy Okelo, the communication strategist for OAY, he stressed the need to recognize these women’s work as equally valuable to any other profession, challenging the common perception that they are merely “garbage collectors.” He highlighted the importance of fostering a sense of pride and dignity, particularly among young mothers and teen parents who often face additional burdens.

“Beyond the stigma, women in waste management encounter significant challenges. Reports of sexual harassment and rape cast a dark shadow over their daily work, and wage inequality persists,” Okelo noted. He went ahead to state that the burden of motherhood is particularly acute, with many women forced to bring their children to work due to a lack of affordable childcare.

Furthermore, Doddy, speaking to Woman Kenya Network, stated that many women lack access to proper safety equipment and training. However, according to him, OAY is actively working with civil society organizations to address these issues, including developing robust reporting mechanisms and providing support for survivors of gender-based violence. 

He further noted that the organization is committed to transitioning to a circular economy, where waste is transformed into valuable resources. This vision is intrinsically linked to women’s empowerment, with women playing a crucial role in driving this change. The event featured representatives from organizations working in this area, emphasizing the importance of waste segregation at the household level as a crucial first step toward sustainability.

This International Women’s Day initiative was not a one-day event, but a catalyst for ongoing change. The commitment to addressing gender-based violence, promoting wage equality, and supporting working mothers is a testament to the dedication of OAY and its partners. The stories shared by the women present served as a powerful reminder of their resilience and determination. They are not merely “garbage collectors,” but environmental stewards, community leaders, and agents of change. 

Their voices, once silenced, are now being amplified, demanding recognition, respect, and equal opportunities. As Nairobi moves forward, the lessons learned will continue to resonate. By empowering women in waste management, the city is building a cleaner environment and a more just and equitable society. The journey is far from over, but the women of Nairobi lead the charge, turning waste into opportunity and transforming their communities.

The post Beyond the Bin: Nairobi Women Redefine Waste Management, Fight for Dignity and Equality appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

As the world commemorates International Women’s Day 2025 on March 8th, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the progress made in advancing women’s leadership and gender equality over the past three decades. Since the landmark 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, significant strides have been made globally in increasing women’s representation in leadership, enacting progressive policies, and amplifying women’s voices in media and governance. Women have been at the forefront of this transformation, pioneering initiatives that have reshaped social and political landscapes across nations. 

A defining moment in the journey toward gender equality has been the adoption of the Constitution 2010 and legislative measures aimed at promoting women’s participation in leadership. For instance, affirmative action policies, such as gender quotas, have been instrumental in increasing women’s representation in decision-making spaces. The introduction of measures like the two-thirds gender rule, which ensures that no more than two-thirds of elective or appointive positions are held by one gender, has marked a critical step forward. While the full implementation of such policies has faced challenges, their impact is evident in the growing number of women in parliaments, local governments, and executive roles. 

The 2022 elections in several countries, for example, marked historic milestones, with record numbers of women elected to leadership positions. This shift reflects changing societal attitudes and a growing recognition of the value women bring to governance. Female leaders have driven key discussions on economic empowerment, gender-based violence (GBV), and social justice, demonstrating the transformative power of inclusive leadership. 

Despite these advancements, women’s representation in leadership remains below desired thresholds. As of 2023, women held only 34% of key decision-making positions across various arms of government globally, highlighting both progress and the persistent challenges. In the public sector, women’s representation in middle and upper management roles remains disproportionately low, underscoring the need for continued advocacy and policy enforcement to bridge the gender gap. 

Media advocacy has played a pivotal role in amplifying women’s voices and advancing gender equality. By promoting gender-sensitive reporting and empowering women journalists through mentorship, training, and leadership programs, media organizations have contributed to reshaping narratives around women’s leadership. However, challenges persist in the media industry. Despite women constituting a significant portion of journalism graduates, their representation in media leadership remains low. Studies show that while women make up the majority of journalism graduates, they are often underrepresented in senior roles within media organizations. This disparity underscores the need for sustained efforts to promote gender equality within the industry. 

Media organizations have also been instrumental in shaping public discourse on women’s rights. By promoting fair representation in news coverage, highlighting women’s achievements, and challenging gender stereotypes, they have used media as a tool for change.

Digital platforms have further expanded opportunities for women to share their stories, engage in discussions, and influence national and global conversations. The progress seen today is a testament to the resilience of women and their allies. Young women now have more role models, greater leadership opportunities, and stronger support systems. Although barriers remain, collective efforts by governments, civil society, and media advocacy groups continue to break them down, moving societies closer to gender equality. 

Looking ahead, the vision for a more equitable future includes a media landscape where women are fully represented, empowered, and influential in shaping policy and public opinion. Increasing women’s leadership in media by advocating for more female editors, managers, and executives is a critical step. Promoting gender-sensitive reporting remains a priority, ensuring that women are fairly and accurately portrayed in news coverage, particularly in politics, business, and governance. Expanding mentorship and training programs for young female journalists, equipping them with digital, investigative, and leadership skills, is equally important. Additionally, fostering gender-responsive media policies is crucial to guaranteeing equal opportunities for women in the industry. Addressing gender-based violence in media spaces, including workplace harassment and online abuse, is another key focus, as these issues continue to hinder women’s participation. 

Digital platforms offer immense potential to empower women, with social media, podcasts, and online publications providing spaces to showcase women’s achievements and challenge stereotypes. Advocacy for research-based policy reforms will further support gender equity in media and leadership. Supporting women’s political participation by using media to highlight female leaders, encourage more women to run for office, and push for the full implementation of gender quotas is also essential. 

For these efforts to succeed, governments must actively support gender equality in media, governance, and policy implementation. Enforcing gender-responsive media policies is essential to ensuring equal employment opportunities, fair pay, and leadership roles for women in newsrooms. Full implementation of gender quotas is necessary to guarantee equitable representation of women in decision-making bodies. Strengthening laws against gender-based violence, workplace harassment, and online abuse is critical in creating safer environments for women. Additionally, providing financial and technical support for women-centered media initiatives, such as grants, fellowships, and digital training programs, will further advance women’s participation in the industry. 

Collaboration between governments, civil society organizations, and media advocacy groups is vital in driving national gender equality campaigns and conducting research to inform policies. Investing in digital transformation will also help close the digital divide, ensuring that women in media, technology, and journalism can thrive in an evolving landscape. 

As the world celebrates International Women’s Day 2025, the commitment to gender equality remains strong. While the journey is far from over, the combined efforts of women leaders, policymakers, media organizations, and advocacy groups continue to push societies toward a more inclusive and equitable future. With continued investment in media representation, leadership opportunities, and policy reforms, the future of women’s leadership is brighter than ever. Through resilience, collaboration, and innovation, the world is setting the stage for a future where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a lived reality.

The post OPED: The Road to Parity: How Media and Advocacy Are Driving Women’s Leadership Forward appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

International Women’s Day has roots that stretch back to the early 20th century, emerging out of the labor movements in North America and Europe. The first official celebration took place in 1911, drawing attention to women’s rights to work, vote, and hold public office. As the years progressed, the day garnered recognition from the United Nations in 1975, and it has grown into a global observance that emphasizes the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.

Each International Women’s Day serves as a platform to remind us that while progress has been made, the fight against gender inequality is far from over. This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is centered around gender sensitivity. This is a crucial concept that encourages understanding, respect, and acknowledgment of the different experiences and challenges faced by individuals based on their gender.

For too long, discussions about gender have been oversimplified or ignored entirely. Gender-sensitive approaches recognize the diverse identity spectrum, urging us to create inclusive spaces that nurture and empower everyone, regardless of their gender identity.

Celebrating International Women’s Day means standing in solidarity with diverse voices and experiences. It challenges the predominant narratives that often marginalize the stories of women of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and women with disabilities. By embracing an intersectional perspective, we can champion a more comprehensive understanding of what it means to be a woman in today’s world, advocating for everyone’s right to thrive.

Why Celebrate?

This is a moment to reflect on the monumental achievements of women. From trailblazers in science and politics to everyday heroes advocating for their communities, celebrating women’s accomplishments encourages future generations to achieve their dreams. International Women’s Day shines a spotlight on the ongoing struggles surrounding gender equality. Initiatives aimed at combatting domestic violence, ensuring equal pay, and promoting women’s health are just a few areas needing our concentrated efforts. By raising awareness on these pressing issues, we push for change and challenge the status quo.

Awareness without action may lead to stagnation. International Women’s Day catalyzes change by inspiring individuals and organizations to take concrete steps toward supporting gender equality. Whether it’s through community projects, policy advocacy, or educational initiatives, action can dismantle the barriers that still exist.

This day serves as a call to action, uniting people of all genders to stand together for equality. Many events, marches, and discussions take place across the globe, reminding us that the fight for women’s rights is a collective issue that requires everyone’s engagement.

By recognizing and advocating for gender sensitivity, Kenyatta University’s Center for Gender Equity Empowerment hosted a significant event today, focusing on this year’s global theme “Accelerating Action for Women and Girls, Rights. Equality and Empowerment.”  This event brought together significant personnel such Prof Waceke Wanjohi,Ph.D, FRSB, FKNAS Ag. -Vice Chancellor Kenyatta University who was the Chief guest, faculty representatives, students and experts to discuss and strategize on advancing women’s rights.

While addressing the congregation on this special occasion, VC Wanjohi in her speech noted that this year’s theme is a way of pushing forward and consolidating women’s efforts for equity. She further stated that gender issues are central hence there is need for the society to embrace women empowerment in order to reduce the rate of dependency.

Prof Wanjohi reiterated that, as a center of learning, the university is committed to the principle of equity. Everyone who has had a chance of associating with the institution bit through employment or knowledge acquisition is treated equally regardless of race, gender, physical attributes etc. “The University upholds zero tolerance to gender- based violence,” VC Wanjohi said. She further called upon the community to work hand in hand with women in empowering then thus enabling then explore their potential.

Discrimination has been the greatest barrier to gender equality as it violates individual rights according to the 2010 constitution. While reckoning the Vice Chancellor’s speech, prof Judith Waudo – Director, Center for Gender Equity and Empowerment and KU-WEE Hub Leader stated that women continue to experience inequality daily, either politically, economically, socially, technologically and in participation in decision making due to social norms hence the need to develop strategies that can help accelerate action for women and girls’ rights, Rights. Equality. Empowerment.

Some of the important norms that would play a bigger role in accelerating women and girls rights according to Prof Waudo are; implementing gender and sexual based violence policies, having gender responsive budgets to facilitate the implementation of gender policies, putting in place penalties for institutions that do not have gender responsive budgets, enforcing laws strictly especially those that deal with GBV offenders, carrying out more advocacy events at all levels as well as relieving women or compensating women of child care responsibilities as this has been identified as a key barrier to women empowerment.

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