International Women’s Day 2025: A Report on Progress and Action
March, widely recognized as Women’s History Month, is set aside to commemorate International Women’s Day, and we take a moment to recognize the incredible strides made in the fight for equality, representation, and inclusion of women across Kenya and the world. From boardrooms to mine sites, from policy discussions to the frontline of energy and extractives, women continue to shape industries, break barriers, and redefine leadership. However, while we celebrate these achievements, we must also acknowledge the gaps that persist and the urgent need for collective action to accelerate progress.
Women have played a pivotal role in Kenya’s energy and extractives sectors, contributing to economic growth, community development, and sustainability. Their leadership has been instrumental in shaping policies, advocating for ethical mining practices, and driving innovation. The inclusion of women in decision-making spaces has led to more equitable industry practices, but much work remains to be done to ensure full participation and recognition.
Despite progress, women in the mining and energy sectors still face a myriad of challenges including gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and underrepresentation in leadership. Pay disparities persist, with women earning less than their male counterparts for equal work. Access to financial and technical resources remains a barrier for women-led enterprises, limiting their financial and economic growth.
Additionally, unpaid care work and societal expectations make it difficult for women to balance professional and family responsibilities. Addressing these gaps requires strong policies, financial inclusion programs, workplace reforms, and a commitment to gender equity across all levels of the industry.
At AWEIK, we remain committed to championing for advancing gender equality in the energy and extractives sectors through our targeted programs designed to empower women and create lasting change. Our key programs include:
- Mine to Market Initiative: This program ensures women in gemstone mining have access to market for their gemstones, helping them scale their businesses and increase profitability.
- Capacity Building: We equip women with leadership, business, and technical skills, enabling them to thrive in the sector and take on more prominent roles.
- Policy and Advocacy: We work with stakeholders to push for policies that enhance gender inclusion, safety, and economic empowerment, ensuring a fair and equitable sector.
- AWEIK Mentorship Program: This initiative connects emerging women professionals and entrepreneurs with industry leaders who provide guidance, networking opportunities, and career development support
During the International Women’s Day 2025 event, organized by Association for Women in Energy and Extractives in Kenya (AWEIK), women professionals, policymakers, industry leaders, and development partners came together to celebrate women’s achievements in the energy and extractives sectors. The event focused on addressing systemic barriers, promoting gender equality, and empowering women and girls to actively participate in shaping a sustainable future. The theme, “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment – Accelerate Action,” underscored the urgency of advancing women’s rights and ensuring equitable opportunities in these sectors.
The event featured several key activities, including:
- Fireside Chat: A panel discussion titled "Breaking Barriers: Women in Energy and Extractives" moderated by Doris Mwirigi, with panelists including Dr. Melba Wasunna from Base Titanium Limited, Sarah Anas Ali from Eco-Hub Services Limited, Emily Ochanda, an Energy business consultant, and Gladys Mong’are from Kenya Human Rights Commission. The discussion focused on the challenges and opportunities for women in the energy and extractives sectors.
- Interactive Session – "Commitment to Action": This session encouraged stakeholders to make concrete commitments towards gender equality and women’s empowerment. The commitments were documented and will be followed up by AWEIK.
- Networking Opportunities: The event provided ample networking opportunities, including a "Rapid Connect/Networking Sprint" led by the AWEIK CEO, allowing participants to connect and collaborate on future initiatives.
Key Takeaways
Mentorship and Networking
- Mentorship is critical: The fireside chat emphasized the importance of tailored mentorship programs that address the unique needs of different generational groups. Women were encouraged to "pass the ladder down" by mentoring others and creating opportunities for the next generation.
- Build strong networks: Understanding one's work environment, identifying allies, and building strong professional networks were highlighted as key strategies for success. Women were urged to support each other and amplify each other's voices.
Personal and Professional Development
- Balance assertiveness with approachability: Attendees discussed the importance of striking a balance between assertiveness and approachability in career progression. Women were advised to be adaptable, or "chameleons," to navigate different environments effectively
- Accountability partners: Having an accountability partner who can provide support and motivation in both personal and professional development was emphasized as a valuable tool for growth.
- Invest in resume and interview preparation: Women were encouraged to ensure their CVs reflect their strengths and achievements, as this is crucial for career advancement.
Leadership
- Kindness and humility in leadership: Women leaders were encouraged to embody kindness and humility while maintaining firmness in their decisions. This approach fosters respect and trust within teams and organizations.
- Accelerate action from home: The event highlighted the importance of starting empowerment efforts within one's immediate circle, including family members and domestic workers. Empowering those around us creates a ripple effect that extends to the broader community.
Accelerating action requires the collective efforts of government agencies, private sector players, development partners, and civil society organizations. We urge stakeholders to:
- Strengthen policies that promote gender equity and inclusion.
- Invest in capacity-building programs for women.
- Ensure safe and conducive working environments for women in energy and extractives.
- Close the gender pay gap and provide equal opportunities.
- Recognize and support women’s unpaid care work through workplace policies and social protection measures.
This Women’s History Month, challenged us to move beyond dialogue and commit to tangible action. By working together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable energy and extractives sector, and a more just world for all.
