Building Climate-Resilient, Female-Led Businesses In Kenya
Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment
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Abstract: This policy brief explores the barriers and opportunities for female-led small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya?s Laikipia County as they face heightened climate risks. It highlights gender-specific vulnerabilities?limited access to finance, poor infrastructure, and workload burden?exacerbated by climate extremes like droughts and floods. Research shows that these SMEs, particularly in agriculture and livestock, are highly exposed to environmental shocks, yet female entrepreneurs are adapting through collective action in women?s groups and business diversification. The report recommends systemic interventions including gender-sensitive infrastructure, inclusive finance solutions, and flexible training tailored to women?s needs to strengthen climate resilience.