Gender-Sensitive Microfinance and Business Growth in Nairobi Female Entrepreneurs' Empowerment Programmes,

This study examines gender-sensitive microfinance programmes aimed at empowering female entrepreneurs in Nairobi, Kenya, focusing on their business growth and microfinance adoption outcomes over a three-year period. The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis on business performance metrics from participating female entrepreneurs enrolled in various empowerment programmes. A total of 150 women were surveyed for this study. Female entrepreneurs demonstrated significant increases in sales revenue and customer base over the three-year period, with a notable proportion (42%) reporting higher profits post-programme participation. The findings suggest that gender-sensitive microfinance programmes effectively support business growth among female entrepreneurs in Nairobi. However, persistent challenges such as lack of collateral and discriminatory lending practices remain significant barriers to full adoption of microfinance solutions. Programmes should continue to prioritise addressing structural inequalities and provide tailored financial education for female entrepreneurs. Additionally, collaboration with local banks could enhance access to traditional financing sources.