Does Women’s Economic Empowerment Drive Value Creation in the Blue Economy?

The Blue Economy plays a crucial role in Kenya’s economic development, particularly in the coastal region, which is rich in maritime resources. However, persistent gender disparities have prevented the sector from reaching its full potential. Women, despite being a significant part of the workforce, face barriers to accessing resources, opportunities, and leadership roles. Empowering women in the Blue Economy is essential not just for gender equality, but for sustainable growth. This study aimed to assess the governance systems in Kenya’s six coastal counties that address gender-related concerns and to explore access to credit and financial resources for businesses in the Blue Economy. Using a mixed-method approach, the research examined women’s awareness of the Blue Economy, training or support available, earnings from employment, economic independence, and access to funding. The findings revealed that while women’s awareness of the Blue Economy is growing, access to formal training and support remains limited. Women face difficulties in securing stable employment and achieving economic independence, with financial decision-making hindered by a lack of resources and opportunities. Access to financial resources for women in the sector remains inadequate. To address these issues, the study recommends strengthening gender-sensitive governance frameworks that include women in decision-making processes, expanding financial resources for women-led ventures, and providing targeted training to enhance women’s skills in the Blue Economy. These measures are vital for promoting inclusive growth and maximizing the sector’s potential.