PS Susan Mang'eni Reaffirms Government’s Commitment to Women’s Economic Empowerment at WEF-K 2025
The Principal Secretary for MSMEs Development, Susan Mangeni, has reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment through targeted policies, financing, and market access initiatives. Speaking at the Women’s Economic Forum Kenya 2025, PS Mangeni highlighted the government’s efforts to bridge existing gaps and create a thriving ecosystem for women entrepreneurs.
The PS emphasized the critical role of women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in driving innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening Kenya’s economy. However, she noted that women still face significant structural barriers, including limited access to finance, business networks, and market opportunities.
“Women in MSMEs are the backbone of our economy. We must recognize that women rights are economic rights. It is so sad that despite their immense contributions, they continue to face challenges that hinder their full participation in economic growth,” she stated.
Speaking on the increased cases of Gender Based violence, the PS highlighted how GBV has far-reaching economic consequences for women, limiting their ability to achieve financial independence and contribute effectively to economic growth.
‘’By eliminating GBV, we can unlock women’s full economic potential, leading to stronger families, thriving businesses, and a more prosperous society” noted Susan.
The government has made strides in supporting women entrepreneurs through initiatives such as the Women Enterprise Fund, the Hustler Fund, and the Kenya Credit Guarantee Schem. Additionally, the 2024 MSMEs survey is underway to provide data-driven insights into the sector’s contributions to GDP, employment, and market trends.
PS Mangeni also underscored the importance of expanding market opportunities for women-led enterprises. She highlighted the government’s ‘Buy Kenya, Build Kenya’ initiative, which prioritizes local businesses in public procurement and supply chains. Furthermore, programs such as the Common User Facilities and Constituency Industrial Development Center’s (CIDCs) are set to support women entrepreneurs with essential infrastructure and manufacturing equipment.
Recognizing the transformative power of technology, the government is also investing in digital literacy and e-commerce platforms to help women entrepreneurs access wider markets. “Digital transformation presents a unique opportunity for women-led businesses to scale and compete effectively. We must embrace technology to break barriers and unlock new opportunities,” PS Mangeni noted.
While acknowledging progress made, PS Mangeni urged stakeholders, including government agencies, financial institutions, development partners, and the private sector, to intensify their collaboration and scale up interventions that support women’s economic participation.
“Let us move from conversations to concrete actions. When women succeed in business, families prosper, communities flourish, and our economy grows stronger. The government remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that women entrepreneurs have the support and resources they need to thrive,” she concluded.
The Women’s Economic Forum Kenya 2025 brought together policymakers, business leaders, and development partners to explore sustainable solutions for women’s economic empowerment. The one-day hybrid event featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, and showcases of innovative women-led enterprises.
As Kenya works towards an inclusive economic landscape, forums like WEF-K continue to serve as critical platforms for driving change and ensuring that women entrepreneurs have a seat at the decision-making table.