KAM Kicks off WIM to Counties Edition | 26 April 2024

KAM kicked off county-focused drive to increase the participation of women in industry, through its Women in Manufacturing (WIM) Programme. The WIM South Rift Forum, held in Nakuru, marked the beginning of a nationwide series of events, geared towards enhancing the participation and inclusivity of women in manufacturing sector.

Speaking at the forum, COUNTY GOVERNMENT OF NAKURU Deputy Governor, Hon David Kones acknowledged the critical role that women play in the economy. He also elaborated that Nakuru County has immense opportunities for manufacturing and value addition that women can take up.

“We have taken deliberate decision to encourage the participation of women in manufacturing sector as part of our drive to industrialize for a stable and sustainable economic future of the country. Nakuru County offers opportunities for value addition in cotton, pyrethrum, dairy and honey among other agricultural products,” expounded Hon Kones.

KAM South Rift Region Chair and WIM Steering Committee Member, Ms Peris Mbuthia, explained why it is critical to have women actively participate in the manufacturing sector.  “As KAM, we aim to create sustainable backward linkages in the country to supplement shortages that may arise out of global logistics network. This is also linked to some of the economic learnings from COVID-19 pandemic, and specifically on the need to prioritize being a self-sufficient nation. Herein lies opportunities for women in value chain integration,” added Ms Mbuthia.

The county editions have been supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ;) GmbH’s programme, Agency for Business and Economic Development, which is commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. The Kenya Chapter Programme Advisor, Ms Edda Otieno noted that it is imperative to recognize the pivotal role that women play in driving innovation, productivity, and sustainability in manufacturing.

In addition to enhancing opportunities for women in value chains, the deliberations focused on export opportunities, technical assistance, mentorship, and funding.

The next county edition shall take place in Kisumu County.