In a world where economic equality remains an elusive goal, endPoverty stands firm in its commitment to overturn this narrative. Despite strides forward, women still face disproportionate economic challenges, with a higher likelihood of living below the poverty line compared to men. Kenya, a country ripe with potential, bears witness to these disparities. But within this landscape of adversity, there is hope through the initiatives of endPoverty.
endPoverty’s mission is clear: to challenge the status quo, uplifting thousands of women and the communities around them. It’s a reality that 4.1 million Kenyan women live on less than a dollar a day, a staggering statistic compared to 3.7 million men facing similar circumstances.
Recognizing this inequality, our Small and Growing Business Programme, Kua Ventures, strides forward, ensuring full support for women entrepreneurs and businesses fostering women’s employment.
Within our portfolio, 35% of the businesses are led and founded by women. This deliberate step amplifies women’s voices and leadership, forging pathways toward economic empowerment.
At the heart of this endeavor lies Nyota Limited, a self-sustaining food processing company pioneered by visionary women, flourishing in Kenya. Florence Mogere, the trailblazing founder, attributes her company’s growth to the unwavering support from Kua Ventures.
Many assume widowed women seek sympathy, but they desire opportunity, security, and dignity. Left with the responsibility of caring for their children, these women need more than charity; they need employment and community support.
Florence shares.
Salome’s story embodies this struggle and triumph. As a widowed mother of four, she grappled with the challenge of providing for her family after her husband’s passing. Through the opportunity provided by Nyota Limited, Salome now holds a permanent position as a Food Technician. Her steady income enables her to support her family, pay for her children’s education, and cover essential expenses.
I am a widow responsible for my children’s well-being. This job has become my lifeline, helping me secure my family’s future.
Salome affirms.
The impact of empowering women like Salome reverberates beyond individual lives. By supporting the entrepreneurial aspirations of the underprivileged in Kenya, we are creating employment opportunities for hundreds of women. This empowerment not only strengthens the individual but also ripples out to fortify families and communities at large.
Our guiding principle, derived from Isaiah, underscores the essence of our work:
Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.
Isiah 1:17 (ESV).
It’s a call to action, a reminder of our commitment to address injustices and champion the cause of vulnerable communities, particularly widows and their families.
At endPoverty, our commitment remains unyielding. Through our initiatives, we aim not just to alleviate poverty but to instigate a transformative change, where women stand as pillars of strength, resilience, and inspiration, driving not only their own destinies but also the prosperity of their communities. Join us in this journey toward a more equitable and empowered future for all.