In Marafa, Kilifi County, women are reclaiming their rights and economic independence, challenging long-standing patriarchal norms that have historically hindered their progress. With the support of ActionAid Kenya (AAIK), women in the Marafa Local Rights Program (LRP) are fostering resilience, securing financial stability, and shaping a future where they can thrive beyond societal limitations.
For generations, women in Marafa have faced systemic challenges, including gender-based violence, economic exclusion, and deeply entrenched cultural barriers. Many were confined to domestic roles, with their primary responsibilities revolving around childbearing, caregiving, and household maintenance. Economic opportunities were scarce, and the few that existed were often reserved for men. For widows, survival often depended on working in other people’s fields for minimal wages, barely sufficient to sustain their families.
A significant turning point came in 2019 when ActionAid organized a training session that brought together women from different communities to discuss economic empowerment. Among the attendees was a determined woman from Marafa who returned with a vision to transform the lives of fellow women. This marked the inception of the Amkeni Women’s Group, a collective dedicated to dismantling harmful gender norms and fostering financial independence.
“Before ActionAid came to Marafa, life was extremely difficult for women. We lived in isolation, struggling to survive individually. Violence against women was rampant, and financial independence was unheard of. Girls’ education was not valued; they were expected to stay at home while boys were given the opportunity to learn,” shares Margaret Charo, the Amkeni Women’s Group chairperson.
Initially, the group engaged in informal discussions about the challenges they faced. As solidarity strengthened, they transitioned into a savings and lending initiative, adopting the Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA) model. Through this approach, members pooled financial resources, provided mutual support, and launched small businesses that significantly improved their livelihoods.
“In my home, I lacked respect because I had nothing to contribute financially. Now, I attend our weekly meetings and return home with essential household supplies. I borrowed money from the group to start a shop, and today, my husband has been inspired to form a men’s savings group in our village,” adds Margaret.
The impact of the Amkeni Women’s Group has been transformative. What began as a simple savings initiative has evolved into an entrepreneurial movement. The group has established a community shop and a tent-and-chair hire business for events. In 2023, they achieved a historic milestone by collectively purchasing one acre of land, an unprecedented achievement for women in their community.
Christine Kazungu, another group member, reflects on her journey:
“In 2018, I relied on charcoal burning to make ends meet while my husband spent his days drinking. Paying school fees for my children was a constant struggle, and I endured domestic violence whenever I returned home late. However, after joining Amkeni, my life changed significantly. Today, I operate a successful fish and vegetable business, ensuring my children’s education remains uninterrupted. In our community, we have become role models for other women and young girls. Owning land was once unimaginable, but today, we stand proud.”
As the world marks International Women’s Day 2025 under the theme “Accelerate Action for ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” the story of the Amkeni Women’s Group serves as a compelling testament to the power of women’s economic empowerment. Their journey underscores the need for sustained investment in women, the promotion of financial independence, and the creation of safe spaces where women’s voices can be heard. By championing such initiatives, we can collectively build a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive.
Author: Velma Kagonya, Community Development Facilitator- Marafa LRP, ActionAid Kenya. Edited by Ezra Kiriago ,Communications Coordinator ActionAid Kenya.