NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 1 – Biashara Pawa, a new dialogue series under the IYBA-SEED program by SNV Netherlands Development Organisation, has been launched in Eldoret to support women and youth entrepreneurs in underrepresented sectors.
The first county-level forum, hosted by Eldohub, brought together more than 120 participants including entrepreneurs, financial institutions, support organizations, county officials, and private sector players.
The discussions centered on challenges facing businesses in sectors such as manufacturing, green economy, agriculture, technology, financial services, infrastructure, blue economy, and water and sanitation (WASH).
The meeting featured 25 women and youth entrepreneurs who shared personal stories and highlighted barriers ranging from access to finance and market linkages to systemic biases.
Breakout sessions pointed to solutions such as peer-to-peer learning, digital market tools, and cooperative financing.
“At EldoHub, we remain committed to creating inclusive pathways for young people and women to thrive in technology and entrepreneurship. Our participation in IYBA-SEED has helped amplify underrepresented voices and foster meaningful partnerships,” said Magdaline Chepkemboi, Founder and Executive Director of Eldohub.
SNV’s Kenya Project Manager, Nduta Ndirangu, added: “Building an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem requires networks of support, learning, and mentorship. Events like Biashara Pawa are vital in unlocking pathways for women and youth to start, sustain, and grow their businesses.”
The program will extend similar dialogues to Nakuru and Kisumu counties, where organizers say they will continue to highlight role models, share success stories, and co-create solutions with local stakeholders.
