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About the event
| Name of the change story: Breaking barriers for women entrepreneurs in Marsabit |
| Description of the change story. What was the objective of the initiative? What was the result/change achieved? What happened? Who participated in producing the success (project partners, network partners, Oxfam, others?)? Who has benefitted or will benefit from the result/change? |
| The initiative aimed to strengthen economic empowerment and resilience among women through targeted mentorship, linking experienced entrepreneurs with those starting or expanding businesses, and fostering supportive networks for shared learning. This vision came to life through MWADO’s facilitation of four women-led groups’ participation in the Marsabit Trade Fair. At the event, the women showcased locally produced goods directly engaging buyers, county officials, and regulatory agencies such as the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS). For many, this was their first exposure to a market setting that combined product promotion, mentorship, and direct access to certification officers. Barriers such as high transport costs, limited market access, and lack of formal product certification were actively addressed through on-the-spot consultations and follow-up commitments from KEBS. |
| What value has the Oxfam/Oxfam Denmark project intervention added? |
| Through Oxfam/ Oxfam Denmark`s support, MWADO shifted the focus from isolated capacity building to integrating women-led groups into larger, formal market systems. The trade fair became more than a sales opportunity it created a bridge between informal entrepreneurs and institutional actors, triggering discussions on long-term structural solutions in supply chains, pricing, and compliance with quality standards. |
| What is the evidence / documentation of the change? Documents, statements, media productions, interviews etc. |
| Testimonies from women entrepreneurs reporting increased sales and new customer bases after the trade fair.Photographs and media coverage showcasing women’s products and interactions with buyers.KEBS registration forms initiated during the event.Trade fair attendance and participation lists. |
| What were the lessons learned? E.g., are there learning that can be used/or should be avoided in other similar initiatives? |
| Trade fairs or other market access initiatives are powerful catalysts for women’s economic empowerment when paired with structured mentorship and continuous business development support such as branding, cost analysis for pricing strategies which are key for sustaining market presence. Collaboration with regulatory bodies during such platforms significantly shortens the time and costs associated with formalizing women’s businesses, accelerating their integration into competitive markets. |
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