Empowering Women: The Envisioned Approach in the 2024/25 National Program-Based Budget Estimates
Category: Economic literacy
By: Fiona Okadia,
The National Treasury has published the latest national edition of Program-Based Budget estimates for 2024/25. My reading of the document suggests that the documents reflect a strategic investment in socio-economic advancement, highlighting the Kenyan government’s dedication to addressing the challenges women face and steadfastly promoting gender equality with determination.
A quick search within this budget using the term “women” highlights various proposals to improve women’s and girls’ lives in the coming year. These initiatives span multiple sectors, each contributing to this comprehensive economic narrative. From dynamic activities in bustling markets to essential services like health clinics, and from skills imparted in training workshops to opportunities showcased at cultural fairs, most state departments will play a crucial role in enhancing women’s lives. This budget illustrates a coordinated effort to ensure women benefit from and contribute to the nation’s growth and development.
Now, picture the Office of the First Lady, where 90,000 women gather under a vast tent, learning the secrets of financial independence, their faces lighting up with newfound knowledge. Training 600 women’s groups on livelihood programs further exemplifies a grassroots approach to fostering economic independence and community resilience.
Now, envision the arid regions supported by the State Department for the ASALs and Regional Development, where resilient infrastructure emerges like an oasis, offering sustenance to 300 women and men who once battled against harsh climates. Although the Program-Based Budget does not specify the gender breakdown, the inclusion of women in these programs is crucial for sustainable development. Additionally, efforts to sensitize youth and women’s groups on conflict prevention and resolution aim to create peaceful and cohesive communities, essential for stable livelihoods.
Now, stepping into the health centers managed by the State Department for Medical Services, dedicated professionals ensure that 97% of HIV-positive pregnant women receive life-saving ART. Here, 89% of newly identified HIV-positive and breastfeeding women are promptly initiated on highly active antiretroviral therapy. The centers provide a lifeline for women of reproductive age, with 59% receiving family planning commodities, while 69% of pregnant women attend at least four antenatal visits, ensuring their babies are born healthy and strong. Furthermore, 62% of women receive post-natal care within 2-3 days of delivery, and 90% of mothers are delivered by skilled birth attendants. These efforts contribute to reducing the facility-based maternal mortality rate to 94 per 100,000 deliveries and the neonatal death rate to 7 per 1,000 live births. The centers also address childhood health, with an under-five mortality rate of 35 per 1,000 live births and a treatment cure rate of 92% for acutely malnourished pregnant and lactating women.
Now, visualize the vibrant initiatives of the State Department for Culture and Heritage, where 1,500 women are empowered in bead craft production, mastering skills that connect them to cultural roots while providing economic opportunities. Additionally, 1,600 women are facilitated to showcase their products at local and international trade fairs and exhibitions, allowing them to reach broader markets and gain recognition for their artistry. These cultural programs not only preserve heritage but also significantly enhance the economic independence of women, weaving tradition with modernity to create sustainable livelihoods.
Now, travel to the micro-enterprises, where the hum of business is accompanied by the laughter of women who have received Ksh 650 million shared between them, the youth, and people living with disabilities. This significant financial support empowers them to dream bigger and achieve more. Witness the distribution of over 15 million sanitary towels, ensuring that no girl misses school due to a lack of menstrual products, thanks to the State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action. This effort is particularly significant given that in 2023, there were about 1.85 million girls in upper primary and 2.08 million in secondary school.
Furthermore, the State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action assumes a pivotal role in advancing gender equity through its concerted efforts. By providing training on gender mainstreaming to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), and conducting audits to uphold the 2/3 gender principle in promotions and recruitment, the department endeavors to create a more inclusive and equitable society. Reflecting on the representation of women across the three branches of government—executive, legislature, and judiciary—we observe a consistent gender distribution. In executive positions, women constitute 19%, while in the legislature, they account for 31%, and within the judiciary, an impressive 51% as shown in Chart 1. These figures underscore the progress made but also highlight the ongoing need for sustained efforts to achieve greater gender parity and inclusivity within governance structures, especially in the executive and legislative positions that are yet to achieve this. It has also trained 550 women entrepreneurs in economic opportunities within the Blue Economy and 50 women on how to access and use the 50 million African Women Speak digital platform for bead-based products and other platforms. Additionally, 550 women have been trained on inter-county trade, intra-EAC trade, and AfCFTA opportunities and regulations, while 100 women have received training in value chain development and cooperative formation.
The same department has linked 2,000 women entrepreneurs to large enterprises, trained 1,300 women in value addition, and disbursed Ksh 5.7 billion to women’s groups. Moreover, it has provided Ksh 30 million via LPO financing and Ksh 30 million to widows through the Thamini loan product. Impressively, 150,000 women have been trained in financial literacy, equipping them with essential skills for economic empowerment.
Chart 1: Number of Men and Women in the Three Arms of Government in 2023
Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the National Youth Services (NYS) training grounds, where the stated number of 3.1 billion represents a typing error, the document confirms to be “the number of service men and women trained in specialized skills” as shown in Chart 2. There lies a dynamic force poised to drive the nation’s growth and development. Despite this erroneous number, there’s a notable emphasis on gender inclusivity, with an average of 29% representation of women in NYS programs from 2019 to 2023, as depicted in Chart Three. With an assumption figure of 31 thousand and this representation, this translates to a significant cohort of at least 8.9 thousand actively engaged women in these initiatives, highlighting a commitment to empowering women in the workforce.
Chart 2: Screenshot: National Youth Service
Source: Program Based Budget 2024/25
Chart 3: Number of Recruits in National Youth Service (2019 to 2023)
Meanwhile, on the borderlines, 200 cross-border traders, encompassing youth, women, and persons with disabilities (PWDs), are enthusiastically navigating the intricacies of regional trade. Their endeavors are illuminated with promise and opportunity, underscoring a collective commitment to harnessing the potential of diverse demographics for socio-economic advancement. In the offices of the Registrar of Political Parties, imagine 3,000 women, youth, and PWDs, their minds buzzing with new knowledge on how to engage in electoral processes, each one a potential leader ready to make a difference.
In conclusion, this is the story of a nation that sees its women not just as beneficiaries, but as partners in progress. A nation where every initiative, every policy, and every budget allocation are a step towards a future where women and men stand together, equal, and empowered.
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Empowering Women: The Envisioned Approach in the 2024/25 National Program-Based Budget Estimates
| Post date: Tue, Jun 4, 2024 |
| Category: Economic literacy |
| By: Fiona Okadia, |
The National Treasury has published the latest national edition of Program-Based Budget estimates for 2024/25. My reading of the document suggests that the documents reflect a strategic investment in socio-economic advancement, highlighting the Kenyan government’s dedication to addressing the challenges women face and steadfastly promoting gender equality with determination.
A quick search within this budget using the term “women” highlights various proposals to improve women’s and girls’ lives in the coming year. These initiatives span multiple sectors, each contributing to this comprehensive economic narrative. From dynamic activities in bustling markets to essential services like health clinics, and from skills imparted in training workshops to opportunities showcased at cultural fairs, most state departments will play a crucial role in enhancing women’s lives. This budget illustrates a coordinated effort to ensure women benefit from and contribute to the nation’s growth and development.
Now, picture the Office of the First Lady, where 90,000 women gather under a vast tent, learning the secrets of financial independence, their faces lighting up with newfound knowledge. Training 600 women’s groups on livelihood programs further exemplifies a grassroots approach to fostering economic independence and community resilience.
Now, envision the arid regions supported by the State Department for the ASALs and Regional Development, where resilient infrastructure emerges like an oasis, offering sustenance to 300 women and men who once battled against harsh climates. Although the Program-Based Budget does not specify the gender breakdown, the inclusion of women in these programs is crucial for sustainable development. Additionally, efforts to sensitize youth and women’s groups on conflict prevention and resolution aim to create peaceful and cohesive communities, essential for stable livelihoods.
Now, stepping into the health centers managed by the State Department for Medical Services, dedicated professionals ensure that 97% of HIV-positive pregnant women receive life-saving ART. Here, 89% of newly identified HIV-positive and breastfeeding women are promptly initiated on highly active antiretroviral therapy. The centers provide a lifeline for women of reproductive age, with 59% receiving family planning commodities, while 69% of pregnant women attend at least four antenatal visits, ensuring their babies are born healthy and strong. Furthermore, 62% of women receive post-natal care within 2-3 days of delivery, and 90% of mothers are delivered by skilled birth attendants. These efforts contribute to reducing the facility-based maternal mortality rate to 94 per 100,000 deliveries and the neonatal death rate to 7 per 1,000 live births. The centers also address childhood health, with an under-five mortality rate of 35 per 1,000 live births and a treatment cure rate of 92% for acutely malnourished pregnant and lactating women.
Now, visualize the vibrant initiatives of the State Department for Culture and Heritage, where 1,500 women are empowered in bead craft production, mastering skills that connect them to cultural roots while providing economic opportunities. Additionally, 1,600 women are facilitated to showcase their products at local and international trade fairs and exhibitions, allowing them to reach broader markets and gain recognition for their artistry. These cultural programs not only preserve heritage but also significantly enhance the economic independence of women, weaving tradition with modernity to create sustainable livelihoods.
Now, travel to the micro-enterprises, where the hum of business is accompanied by the laughter of women who have received Ksh 650 million shared between them, the youth, and people living with disabilities. This significant financial support empowers them to dream bigger and achieve more. Witness the distribution of over 15 million sanitary towels, ensuring that no girl misses school due to a lack of menstrual products, thanks to the State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action. This effort is particularly significant given that in 2023, there were about 1.85 million girls in upper primary and 2.08 million in secondary school.
Furthermore, the State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action assumes a pivotal role in advancing gender equity through its concerted efforts. By providing training on gender mainstreaming to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), and conducting audits to uphold the 2/3 gender principle in promotions and recruitment, the department endeavors to create a more inclusive and equitable society. Reflecting on the representation of women across the three branches of government—executive, legislature, and judiciary—we observe a consistent gender distribution. In executive positions, women constitute 19%, while in the legislature, they account for 31%, and within the judiciary, an impressive 51% as shown in Chart 1. These figures underscore the progress made but also highlight the ongoing need for sustained efforts to achieve greater gender parity and inclusivity within governance structures, especially in the executive and legislative positions that are yet to achieve this. It has also trained 550 women entrepreneurs in economic opportunities within the Blue Economy and 50 women on how to access and use the 50 million African Women Speak digital platform for bead-based products and other platforms. Additionally, 550 women have been trained on inter-county trade, intra-EAC trade, and AfCFTA opportunities and regulations, while 100 women have received training in value chain development and cooperative formation.
The same department has linked 2,000 women entrepreneurs to large enterprises, trained 1,300 women in value addition, and disbursed Ksh 5.7 billion to women’s groups. Moreover, it has provided Ksh 30 million via LPO financing and Ksh 30 million to widows through the Thamini loan product. Impressively, 150,000 women have been trained in financial literacy, equipping them with essential skills for economic empowerment.
Chart 1: Number of Men and Women in the Three Arms of Government in 2023
Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the National Youth Services (NYS) training grounds, where the stated number of 3.1 billion represents a typing error, the document confirms to be “the number of service men and women trained in specialized skills” as shown in Chart 2. There lies a dynamic force poised to drive the nation’s growth and development. Despite this erroneous number, there’s a notable emphasis on gender inclusivity, with an average of 29% representation of women in NYS programs from 2019 to 2023, as depicted in Chart Three. With an assumption figure of 31 thousand and this representation, this translates to a significant cohort of at least 8.9 thousand actively engaged women in these initiatives, highlighting a commitment to empowering women in the workforce.
Chart 2: Screenshot: National Youth Service
Source: Program Based Budget 2024/25
Chart 3: Number of Recruits in National Youth Service (2019 to 2023)
Meanwhile, on the borderlines, 200 cross-border traders, encompassing youth, women, and persons with disabilities (PWDs), are enthusiastically navigating the intricacies of regional trade. Their endeavors are illuminated with promise and opportunity, underscoring a collective commitment to harnessing the potential of diverse demographics for socio-economic advancement. In the offices of the Registrar of Political Parties, imagine 3,000 women, youth, and PWDs, their minds buzzing with new knowledge on how to engage in electoral processes, each one a potential leader ready to make a difference.
In conclusion, this is the story of a nation that sees its women not just as beneficiaries, but as partners in progress. A nation where every initiative, every policy, and every budget allocation are a step towards a future where women and men stand together, equal, and empowered.
More Blogs
The Grounds to Repeal the Price Control Act of 2011
The Price Control Act of 2011, with its imposition of price ceilings on essential goods, represents a significant intervention in the natural forces of supply and demand that govern a free market. The Act empowers the Minister to control the prices of essential goods, preventing them from becoming unaffordable. The Act outlines a specific mechanism […]
Why is Kenya’s Fiscal Consolidation Agenda Facing Failure?
The earliest proposition of fiscal consolidation can be traced back to the Keynesian theory which argues that fiscal austerity measures reduce growth and increases unemployment through aggregate demand effects. According to this theory, government undertaking contractionary fiscal policies of either reducing government spending or increasing tax rates, will eventually suffer a reduction in aggregate demand […]
Is Monetary Policy Too Tight?
We recommended (“And then, Floods”) that the Central Bank of Kenya policy rate should be lowered by 300 basis points, from 13 to 10 percent, from August 6. Instead, a reduction of just 25 basis points, from 13 to 12¾, was made on that date. Someone is wrong. Who? In explaining the 25bp decision, it […]
Tax 101: Misconceptions on the Withdrawal of the Finance Bill and Its Implications on Kenya’s Appropriations.
There has been a misconception that when the Finance Bill 2024 was formally withdrawn, all government operations would stop because revenues would not be raised. To understand this misconception, we need to understand what a finance bill is, what revenue-raising measures are, and how that is related to the tax code. A Finance bill is […]
The Constitutional Argument on Why Fiscally Decentralized Resources Cannot Be Shared Based on Population Alone?
1. Introduction Fiscal decentralisation is a core part of Kenya’s Constitutional order. Fiscal decentralisation is allocating revenue and expenditure responsibilities to lower levels of government. Kenya’s identity as a sovereign republic, as stated in Article 4 of its Constitution, is deeply intertwined with the national value of devolution, emphasised in Article 10. This unique relationship […]