Constraints to Women Economic Empowerment in the Manufacturing Sector in Kenya

Abstract

Studies show that the manufacturing sector in Kenya has over the years been male dominated. While women have gained entrance into the manufacturing sector, they face various hurdles emanating from gender socialization, cultural norms and stereotypes. Additionally, women have limited access to and control over productive resources, inadequate business knowledge and skills which affect their economic advancement. The objective of the paper was to explore the constraints women entrepreneurs in the manufacturing sector face and how they can be addressed for attainment of women Economic empowerment in the sector. Data was collected using a questionnaire consisting of quantitative section, qualitative section, focus group discussion and discussion at the Women in Manufacturing Nyeri Conference. Data was then analyzed using descriptive and econometric approaches and reported as quantitative and qualitative results. Majority of the respondents reported that households own productive assets but only 21% of the respondents had land title. A significant number of women reported that they had limited control over household productive assets and could not make exclusive decisions about business and household income. The survey revealed that husband’s dominance and control over women’s personal resources and business life is a major problem that hinders business development among women. The enterprises are also frustrated through heavy taxation, both at the county and at the national levels. Women also face challenges in meeting business registration requirements due to multiple stop shops.