In Kenya, levels of extreme poverty and inequality are disproportionately high in informal settlements and rural communities. Informal settlements like Kibera, a slum community on the outskirts of Nairobi, are not legally recognized by the government and are characterized by overcrowded dwellings, poor sanitation, limited infrastructure, and a high unemployment rate of 54%. Formal employment is similarly rare in Homa Bay, rural county along the shores of Lake Victoria. Unemployment rates are especially high among young women due to lower education levels, lack of vocational experience, and limited access to capital and markets.

One Day’s Wages is partnering with Garden of Hope Foundation for three years to equip low-income women in Kibera and Homa Bay with the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to achieve financial independence. Through our partnership, 450 women are completing entrepreneurship and vocational training programs, coupled with mentoring from local business leaders. Participants are being connected to local markets and financial institutes to secure capital for launching small businesses based on their unique skills and interests. The goal by the end of three years is for 90% of the women to have secured a consistent source of income.