AECF launches programme to empower women in Kenya’s blue economy

We are thrilled to announce the official launch of the Investing in Women in the Blue Economy in Kenya (IIW-BEK) Programme!

Thanks to the generous funding of CAN $9.7 million from Global Affairs Canada (GAC), we are set to support the growth and financing of women and young women-owned Medium and Small Enterprises (SMEs) in non-traditional markets, with a focus on conserving and sustaining coastal and lake biodiversity.

The IIW-BEK programme is a truly collaborative effort, uniting both private and public sectors to promote sustainability and drive performance among women-owned enterprises in Kenya’s blue economy. Our sights are firmly set on the Lake Victoria Basin and Indian Ocean regions as we work to empower 110 women-owned enterprises, who will, in turn, create 1,490 direct jobs and impact 1,560 women entrepreneurs, their employees, suppliers, and producers.

The blue economy in Kenya holds immense potential, yet women’s participation has been limited to casual work in medium-scale businesses. By providing women with access to funding, technical support, and business development opportunities, we are championing equal access and igniting opportunities for women in this sector.

The launch event not only announced our first cohort of winners, Rio Fish Ltd. and Greatlakes Feeds Ltd but also opened applications to the second funding window for small businesses in Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Tana River, Lamu, Taita Taveta, Busia, Siaya, Kisumu, Homabay and Migori.

Watch and share our video showcasing the first two investees of the IIW-BEK programme! In this inspiring video, you will hear directly from these trailblazing women entrepreneurs, learn about their ventures, and witness firsthand how their dedication and passion are driving positive change in Kenya’s blue economy.

Learn more about IIW-BEK.