In our community, women have never been allowed to give their opinion, not even at home. That has created a psychological and economic dependence on men, says Eishia, a 35-year-old Kenyan woman and mother of five.
When I took part in a management training course on small businesses, held by ActionAid, I accepted the challenge of becoming independent. Now I sell vegetables in my kiosk, which allows me to contribute to the well-being of my family. I feel proud to have something that is really mine and not suffer my husband's decisions anymore. I’m grateful to ActionAid for making a difference to my life and to that of many women like me".
In Kenya, the role of women has always been restricted to the home and caring for children, without the opportunity to decide issues concerning the family. ActionAid has organised training courses involving more than 150 women, many of whom have started small businesses that allow them to play an important part in society and claim the right to an opinion in the family environment.