Nairobi 8th March 2025
In celebration of International women’s day 2025, Nairobi County Executive Committee Member in charge of Business and Hustlers Opportunity Dr. Anastasia Nyalita accompanied by County Chief Officer for Cooperatives, Mr. George Mutiso graced the Women in Coops Luncheon, a high level forum dedicated to recognizing and advancing the role of women in the cooperative movement.
Under the theme ” Women in cooperative: Leading, Thriving ,Transforming , the luncheon explored strategies to strengthen women’s participation in cooperative governance, opportunities to expand financial inclusion for women in the cooperative sector and policy frameworks that promote sustainable and inclusive cooperative growth.
As she highlighted the County’s commitment to Cooperative development and women’s economic empowerment Dr. Nyalita said that Nairobi is committed to fostering an environment where women not only participate in cooperatives but lead them.
“As a county government we are focused on increasing women’s leadership by ensuring that more women hold key decision-making roles in cooperative boards and management. We also plan on enhancing financial inclusion by expanding access to credit for women-led cooperatives and other financial inclusion initiatives.” said Dr. Nyalita.
In line with H.E Governor Sakaja’s manifesto, the county Government is keen on Investing in capacity building, training and mentorship programs in cooperative governance, business development, and digital literacy to equip women with the skills to lead. Creating networking opportunities Platforms like the luncheon, it seeks to empower and uplift women in the cooperative sector.
As she concluded her remarks the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) said that the cooperative movement is built on democracy and inclusion and urged the women to commit to making women’s economic empowerment a priority, not just a conversation. “Let’s step up. Let’s take the lead. Let’s build a cooperative movement that reflects the true strength of our communities one that is diverse, equitable, and driven by the collective power of all.” she said.
The Chief Officer for Cooperatives Mr. George Mutiso who accompanied the CECM, stated that Cooperatives are unique as they are both businesses and democratic institutions. This dual nature presents both challenges and opportunities for leaders. He urged women in cooperative leadership to master the art of balancing diverse member interests while ensuring financial sustainability and ethical governance.
“When women lead, cooperatives thrive. And when cooperatives thrive the entire community transforms. The future of cooperative leadership is inclusive where every voice is valued and leadership is based on ability, vision, and contribution rather than gender.” he said.
The event organized by Coops Africa, an initiative of Credence Africa in partnership with Nairobi County’s Cooperatives Sub sector, focused on empowering women in cooperative and enhancing County level cooperative development.
Also present at the luncheon was County Chief Officer for public participation, citizen engagement and customer service Ms. Zipporah Mwangi, Cooperative officers from Nairobi County and former Kajiado woman Rep Hon. Mary Seneta among other women leaders.
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