The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) launched its Women in Manufacturing (WIM) Programme today, a county-focused initiative to boost the number of women working in the industry.
A state-wide series of events aimed at improving women's engagement and inclusivity in the manufacturing sector got underway with the WIM South Rift Forum, which took place in Nakuru.
Hon. David Kones, the Deputy Governor of Nakuru County, praised the crucial role that women play in the economy during his speech at the conference.
Additionally, he clarified that women might pursue the many manufacturing and value-added possibilities in Nakuru County.
“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.
Also at the event Ms. Edda Otieno, the Kenya Chapter Programme Advisor, stated that it is critical to acknowledge the critical role that women play in advancing innovation, productivity, and sustainability in the manufacturing sector.
The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development commissioned the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ;) GmbH's Agency for Business and Economic Development project, which has funded the county editions. Kisumu County will host the following county edition.
Apart from augmenting prospects for females within value chains, the discussions centred on export prospects, technical support, guidance, and financing.