Strengthen women’s influence in national and regional trade policy
Actions
Collaborate with KNCCI, KEPSA, and other public‑private umbrella bodies. Host quarterly Public‑Private Dialogues (PPDs) to shape gender‑responsive policies. Develop policy briefs and lobby for reforms in market access, finance, and trade barriers.
Impact
Contributed to the revision of the East African Community Gender Policy in 2024, ensuring dedicated allocations for women exporters.
Enhance leadership, governance, and financial literacy of member associations
- Actions:
- Conduct needs assessments and deliver bespoke training modules on governance and strategic planning.
- Partner with Strathmore Business School and UN Women for mentorship and executive coaching.
- Promote sustainable association models with clear governance charters and audit-ready processes.
- Impact: Over 30 member associations have strengthened their governance, leading to a 25% increase in donor funding in 2024.
Expand domestic and international market access for women entrepreneurs.
- Actions:
- Facilitate B2B partnerships, trade fairs, and buyer‑seller meetups in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kigali.
- Organise market exposure trips to industry hubs in Dubai, London, and Johannesburg.
- Maintain a digital Trade Portal with supplier directories, export procedures, and buyer briefs.
- Impact: Enabled 200+ women‑led SMEs to secure export contracts valued at over KES 150 million in 2024.
Secure funding and innovative financing for women‑led enterprises
Actions
Partner with Equity Bank, KCB, and Cooperative Bank to develop gender‑responsive loan products. Advocate for blended finance mechanisms with FSD Kenya and private foundations. Monetise our research and data services to generate operational revenue
Impact
Facilitated over KES 300 million in credit access for member enterprises since launch
Serve as the premier data hub on women in trade
- Actions:
- Conduct biannual ecosystem surveys and publish actionable insights.
- Maintain a centralised online portal for trade intelligence and best practices.
- Foster collaborations with regional networks such as AWEP Africa and the African Union Continental Network.
- Impact: Our 2024 Women in Trade Ecosystem Report was cited by the Ministry of Trade in policy consultations.