Women’s Empowerment Center

Providing women in the Maasai Mara with the skills and knowledge to lead their families and communities.

The Women’s Empowerment Centre (WEC) is a key pillar of our work in Kenya, driving meaningful change in the Maasai Mara by equipping women with the skills, knowledge, and resources they need to achieve financial independence and uplift their families. Central to the WEC’s mission is its focus on financial literacy, skills development, and entrepreneurship training, empowering women to pursue income-generating opportunities and break the cycle of poverty.

One of the most impactful elements of the WEC’s programming is the formation of women’s groups that operate as Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs). These groups not only provide women with a platform for saving and borrowing money but also foster a supportive community where they can pool resources and invest in their businesses. Through VSLAs, women are able to access capital that would otherwise be unavailable, enabling them to start or expand small businesses, secure their families’ livelihoods, and build more stable futures.

The financial literacy programs offered at the WEC, combined with the VSLA model, have transformed the lives of thousands of women. Skills development has broadened the range of ventures available for investment and helped women to tap into local resources and opportunities. Many have increased their household income, achieved financial independence, and strengthened their families’ economic stability. By learning how to manage finances, grow their businesses, and reinvest in their communities, these women are driving local economic development.

Beyond financial success, the WEC fosters leadership and collaboration. Women who have participated in the WEC’s programs are becoming leaders within their communities, using their skills and knowledge to mentor others. Through their participation in VSLAs and community-based initiatives, they are creating a ripple effect of empowerment that extends far beyond their own households. By sharing their experiences and supporting each other, these women are building stronger, more resilient communities. The impact of the Women’s Empowerment Centre is not just financial—it is a lasting transformation that will empower future generations.