Towards An Equitable Future: Financial & Technological Inclusion Bridging Gender Gap In Kenya

Much like the rest of the world, the African nation of Kenya is caught in the throes of a persistent gender gap across. The existent gender gap extends to all aspects of life. impacting women’s access to economic participation, education, and political representation.

Women in Kenya also fall behind when it comes to financial and technological inclusion, a key catalyst for empowering women. A recent study concluded that Kenya is making gradual yet sure strides towards digitisation since 2021, which has had a positive impact on gender parity in the nation.

Since 2021, more and more women received access to financial technology. In 2024, there was a 62 percent surge in percentage of women in the most advanced digital user segment. As smartphone ownership increases along with adoption of digital payment, more and more women are gaining access to usage of such digital technologies.

Although significant work remains to be done in empowering women in Kenya, this is a step in the right direction and an indicator of Kenya equitable future.

Kenyan business leader Sally Mahihu, co-founder, Bowyer Mahihu and Co Advocates shares our optimistic outlook on Kenyan women’s future. in an interview with the GWL team, Sally says, “As systems and structures evolve and enhance, women across Kenya and globally are building momentum and gaining increased access to leadership and civic engagement opportunities in environments designed to support their success. With rising resilience and determination, women are positioning themselves for stronger influence and measurable contributions across key industries.”

Sally is one of the Kenyan women leaders feature in the current edition of GWL magazine. With over three decades in legal practice and excellence though leadership, Sally brings deep insight being a legal expert and strategic leader. She is the founder and principal of Bowyer Mahihu & Company Advocates, with offices in both Nairobi and Mombasa. A prolific author and community leader, Sally is also a devoted wife and a mother of two.

She is joined by Jackline Cherop, the CEO of Densey Tours & Travels. She has over a decade of experience in the industry, building a trusted brand known for its community-based travel experiences with social impact. She established a renowned Kenyan travel agency known for its personalized service, attention to detail, and commitment to sustainable tourism. Shattering all barriers, Jackline's strategic and hands-on role includes overseeing business operations, client relationship management, and product development, making travel accessible for all.

Women such as Jackline and Sally are shining exemplars of the rise of women leaders in Kenya, its safe to say that the future in Kenya is certainly female!

Read more about these women leaders and their inspirational journeys in the current edition of GWL magazine.

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