Women’s share of Kenya’s Board Seats Jumps to 36% against 21% globally

Women sitting on the Boardrooms of various companies in Kenya now stands at 36%, according to a joint report by the Kenya Institute of Management (KIM), New Faces New Voices (NFNV) and Kenya Private Sector Alliance. This is compared to a global average of 21%.

The 2021 Board Diversity and Inclusion Survey also shows that women constitute 21% of the appointed board chairperson’s appointments whereas the global average is 3.0%.

Womenrepresentation in C-suite

Women representation in C-suite roles in Kenya constitutes 37% compared to 21% globally.

Dr Muriithi Ndegwa CEO, KIM said the institute recognizes that diversity and inclusion are essential components of a Company’s leadership and governance. This report examined the impact of diversity and inclusion on organisational performance, decision-making, and productivity in the boardroom.

The study sought to explore diversity beyond gender and age, and included other variables such as education attained, professional background, national origin, ethnicity, and religion.

The aim was to provide insights into best practices to drive parity by 2030, as enshrined in the Social Pillar of the Vision 2030 Blueprint.

The report was released during a launch event organized in Nairobi which brought together senior executives of listed companies, government officials and non–government officials keen on enhancing gender equality in Kenya.

“As champions of best practice in governance and management, KIM has made substantial progress over the years; and now we are intensifying our efforts to create a more inclusive, diverse, and supportive community.” Dr Muriithi Ndegwa, CEO, KIM, explained.

Geoffrey Odundo, Chief Executive, NSE said diversity in the corporate world is a true developmental issue that needs to be addressed and embraced in Kenya.

“Tackling gender equality will unlock billions of shillings which is currently unrealized economic value in our country,” said Odundo.

Angaza Awards

With the ethos to recognise and raise awareness of seasoned women who are shaping and influencing Africa’s financial services sector, the Kenyan Wallstreet, and Kaleidoscope Consultants have partnered to launch this year’s Pan African Angaza Awards.

The call for entries for the “2021 Top 10 Women to Watch” list that will feature women across the various industries that make up the financial services sector. The entry period for the Award runs from 1st August 2021 and closes on 30th October 2021. 

Submit your application now on www.angazaawards.com to be recognized among Top Women in Africa in Banking, Co-Operatives, Development Finance Institutions, Insurance, and Private Equity.

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