Kenya private sector launches gender mainstreaming policy

The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), has launched a gender mainstreaming policy to close the gap in pay and encourage female entrepreneurs. The policy represents a first-of-its-kind measure introduced by the country's private sector network.

The policy is guided by principles of diversity and inclusion and recognises that the private sector’s policies, programs, and initiatives ought to contribute to the realization of gender equality in Kenya. The policy also recommends that businesses must implement gender-responsive budgeting and resourcing as well as set clear targets, measurements, reporting and communication procedures for collecting and analyzing gender-related data to contribute to sustainable outcomes.

UN Women Economic Empowerment Specialist, Elizabeth Obanda, reiterated the importance of economic empowerment to broader efforts towards gender equality:

"We know that gender equality and women’s empowerment are prerequisites for strong institutions and stable communities and economies. Investing in women’s economic empowerment sets a direct path towards equality, inclusive economic growth and wealth creation. Women make enormous contributions to economies, whether in businesses, on farms, as entrepreneurs or employees, or by doing unpaid care work at home."

KEPSA Chairperson Flora Muthai reiterated the importance gender equality plays to industry growth:

"Research has shown that companies with a supplier diversity program generate a 33 percent greater return-on-investment, while generating new revenue streams. The formulation of this policy demonstrates the private sector’s commitment to ensuring gender mainstreaming is integral to the operations of an organization. It is imperative to ensure that no one is left behind in this quest for sustainable growth and development."

The policy is founded on seven priority areas which includes key sector initiatives such as the Women's Empowerment Principles. The priority areas include:

1.    Gender mainstreaming as part of organizational strategy
2.    Support women & other marginalized groups in the workforce, business, business associations, and leadership.
3.    Adopt and implement gender-responsive policies at the workplace.
4.    Prevent Gender-Based Violence & Harassment in leadership.
5.    Promote gender awareness
6.    Set clear targets, measure, report and communicate
7.    Implement gender-responsive budgeting and resource mobilization