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Women Leadership in Economics in Kenya: Validation and Stakeholder Roundtable.

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Earlier today, the Institute for Social Accountability (TISA), led by the Executive Director and the Trade Justice Officer, had the opportunity to attend the Co-Impact validation roundtable, which focused on unpacking the report findings on the status of women’s leadership in economics in Kenya. The event brought together over 50 participants, including 39 women and 11 men, representing government and non-government representatives. The presentation of the report findings revealed several barriers hindering women from taking leadership roles in the economic space. One of the major themes that emerged was the various challenges women face, such as sexual harassment, discriminatory promotion practices, and deeply entrenched gender norms that obstruct their progress. These challenges exist at multiple levels; individual, organizational, policy, and societal. The report elaborated on how inadequate mentorship structure and the gap between old and young economists have also acted as significant hurdles. It was eye-opening to see how, despite significant milestones, including policy and constitutional reforms to increase gender equality and inclusivity, these systemic barriers continue holding women, especially young economists, back despite their qualifications and ambitions. Notwithstanding the obstacles, the report highlighted several enablers to help young women rise to economic leadership positions. At the individual level, the report emphasized the importance of self-awareness, determination, and continuous desire for education and to learn. Supportive work environments, fostering professional development, and encouraging mentorship emerged as organizational enabling factors. Societal support from friends, family, and colleagues is also an important enabling factor in empowering young women economists to pursue leadership in the economic sector. As one of the panel discussants, our Executive Director emphasized the need for women to seize economic opportunities, build their confidence, and be ready to challenge the existing barriers. She stressed that women must position themselves as capable leaders to challenge power, especially in spaces like the National Treasury, where men are often still seen as the default leadership choice. The key takeaway from this roundtable was the importance of building networks and mentorship programs to support young women economists, especially through gender mainstreaming in all spaces. There is also a clear need for more collaboration and support to instill a systemchange mindset to ensure women can step into leadership roles in economic decision-making.  

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