Financial freedom driving more Kenyan women into business

According to a Mastercard survey, nine out of 10 are considering starting own ventures

by JACKTONE LAWI

Kenya06 March 2025 - 12:33

In Summary

Among women founders in Kenya, 45 per cent started their business to follow their dream, while 41per cent sought better work-life flexibility and balance—figures closely aligned with broader trends across EEMEA.
The survey further shows that Kenyan women are not only aspiring to start businesses but are also actively participating in side hustles.

A trader engages a customer at Harambee Market in Kangemi, Nairobi on March 2 /ENOS TECHE

WOMEN in Kenya are outshining their regional peers in entrepreneurial spirit, with nine out of 10 considering starting or running their own businesses, a new survey shows.

Compared to the region, 93 per cent of Kenyan women consider starting or running their own business, way above the Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EEMEA) average of 51 per cent. According to the Mastercard survey, older generations in Kenya, including Baby Boomers (93 per cent) and Gen X (90 per cent), are slightly more likely to view themselves as entrepreneurs compared to the 85 per cent of Gen Z, and 89 per cent of Millennials.

Subscribe to Support

Independent Journalism

Help us continue bringing you unbiased news, in-depth investigations, and diverse perspectives. Your subscription keeps our mission alive and empowers us to provide high-quality, trustworthy journalism. Join us today to make a difference!

Already Subscribed? Sign in