Five Years to 2030: Alarming Setbacks Threaten Progress for Kenyan Women and Girls
As Kenya approaches 2030, experts warn that ongoing social, economic, and policy setbacks are threatening the gains made for women and girls across the country. A recent analysis by senior gender journalist Moraa Obiria highlights persistent challenges including unequal access to education, gender-based violence, and limited economic opportunities, which have been exacerbated by global crises and local disruptions. The warning comes as the world marks progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing that without urgent action, Kenyan women risk being left behind in the final stretch toward 2030.
Obiria notes that while resilience remains a defining feature of many households, structural barriers continue to hold women back. For instance, girls’ education suffers disproportionately during economic hardships, and women-led businesses often face financial exclusion and limited market access. Additionally, social norms and policy gaps perpetuate inequalities, making it harder for women to participate fully in decision-making at community and national levels. The article cites examples from markets such as Wakulima in Nakuru, where women hawk produce amid difficult economic conditions, underscoring both their determination and the systemic challenges they confront.
The implications of these setbacks are wide-ranging. Analysts argue that failing to address gender disparities not only harms women and girls but also slows national development, as half the population remains underutilized in economic and social spheres. To reverse these trends, activists are calling for targeted interventions including strengthened legal protections, equitable education policies, and greater investment in women’s entrepreneurship. The coming five years are seen as critical: the trajectory set now will determine whether Kenya achieves meaningful gender equality by 2030, ensuring that women and girls can contribute fully to the nation’s growth and prosperity.