In a move to combat unemployment and climate vulnerabilities, women in Lamu are being encouraged to embrace nature-based business solutions.
This initiative was highlighted during the launch of the Women in Climate Spaces Exhibition and Forum on Amu Island.
Josinta Omuyoma, Project Officer at the Lamu Women Alliance (LAWA), announced the implementation of the “Voices for Justice and Climate Action” programme, supported by Akina Mama wa Afrika (AMWA).
The programme is designed to empower women in vulnerable communities to develop businesses that provide local climate solutions.
“We aim to further highlight women’s contribution to climate change initiatives dubbed ‘Cultivating Change: Celebrating the Role of Grassroots Women in Leading the Charge for Climate Change,” Omuyoma stated at the forum.
She emphasised that these events would not only serve as an inspirational platform but also promote businesses that are both profitable and gender-responsive in addressing climate issues.
The exhibition featured several innovative ventures, including mangrove seedling conservation, crab farming, chicken rearing, beekeeping, and basket making, showcasing how these activities can both mitigate environmental degradation and provide economic benefits.
LAWA’s Executive Director, Raya Famau, also spoke at the event, underscoring the importance of partnerships and awareness.
“With the way the world is changing and the income that households get shrinking, there is a need to include women, especially those in marginalised communities like the Boni, Sanye, and Bajuni, in contributing to their families through climate-based business ideas,” Famau pointed out.
The forum also received support from the local government. Aisha Miraj, the Tourism and Trade County Executive Committee (CEC) member, praised the initiative for opening new opportunities for women, particularly those who are divorced or widowed.
“The county government, through its Women’s and Youth Fund initiative, will engage with women aiming to start businesses that are climate change solution-based. With the support of LAWA for training, this initiative can be a game-changer for many households in Lamu,” Miraj explained.
She further noted that the move to adopt such solutions marks a pivotal moment for women in Lamu, offering a pathway to not only address the pressing issues of climate change but also to enhance their economic status, thereby fostering resilience and sustainability within their communities.
By Amenya Ochieng
