Climate change adaptation among female-led micro, small and medium enterprises in semi-arid areas : a case study from Kenya

The paper argues that strong socio-cultural orientations around gender roles and resource access confine female-led micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to sectors that experience higher exposure to climate risk, most notably agriculture. These factors also trigger more pronounced barriers to building resilience within female-led businesses, including reduced access to land, capital, markets, new technology and educational opportunities. Social networks, such as women’s groups and micro banking initiatives, appear to be crucial adaptation tools. MSMEs are critical in developing country economies. Accounting for about 80% of total employment, they provide most livelihood opportunities in sub-Saharan Africa.UK Government’s Department for International Development (DfID