Women traders benefit from affordable childcare services

The growing demand for childcare services globally has revealed a critical need, with over 40 per cent of children lacking access to structured care.

In Kenya, where women in micro and informal enterprises rely on this essential support, affordable childcare remains scarce.

Recognising this gap, the University of Nairobi’s Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Hub, in collaboration with the Collaborative Centre for Gender and Development (CCGD) and local government bodies, launched a childcare centre at Kenya’s Busia border town in 2021.

This pilot project offers cross-border traders an affordable daily childcare service for just Sh50 alleviating a significant burden for women entrepreneurs in the area.

In Busia town, affordable childcare has transformed the lives of women entrepreneurs, offering a lifeline to mothers who need safe and accessible care options to focus on their businesses, improve incomes, and share domestic responsibilities with their partners.

One of the primary effects observed is the increase in time women spend on their businesses. According to the study conducted one year after the childcare service was launched.

“Many of us are forced to take our children with us to work or leave them with friends and family. This has a direct impact on our business hours, focus, and overall productivity,” a career lady observed.

The number of mothers reporting that they could open their businesses on time rose from 10 percent at baseline to over 90 per cent.

“I no longer have to worry about finding someone to watch my child or rushing home early. With reliable childcare, I can stay focused and build my business. It’s made all the difference,” said a mother and cross-border trader.”

The time flexibility has not only improved individual productivity but has also led to increased economic activities.

The study showed a 43 per cent increase in women sourcing goods from Ugandan markets across the border, leading to more diversified income sources.

According to the study’s findings, one year after the childcare centre's opening, significant strides have been made.

“We are able to work full days now and even source goods from further markets,” shared a trader, reflecting the sense of relief and empowerment the facility has brought to many in her community.

Monthly sales rose significantly, from an average of Sh 47,351 to Sh 69,243, and profits nearly doubled from Sh 9,861 to Sh19,444, a testament to change brought about by the child care services.

With higher profits, over 63 per cent of respondents reported reinvesting in their businesses, leading to business growth and household stability.

 "My business has expanded because I can now dedicate the time needed. I can finally see the returns of my hard work," said another beneficiary of the childcare program.

Beyond economic benefits, the program has also led to a notable shift in family dynamics. With the burden of childcare partially lifted, more men are engaging in unpaid care and household chores.

Additionally, women have joined local cooperative and social groups in greater numbers, where many have taken on leadership roles.

Key recommendations from the study also indicate a positive change in household dynamics, with more men actively participating in childcare.

The study found an increase in the number of spouses contributing to domestic duties, including taking care of children, helping with homework, and attending school meetings.

“Seeing my husband help with the children has been unexpected. It’s brought us closer, and there is less stress in our home a shift from the past,” another beneficiary of the services, adding that this shift has improved family relations and created a sense of shared responsibility.

This has bolstered support for childcare facilities through policy development and budgetary support, particularly in areas with high concentrations of female traders.

Advocacy groups are also encouraging shifts in gender norms to ensure domestic work distribution among family members.

“When men participate in childcare, it benefits the entire family and promotes gender equality,” explained a member of the Collaborative Centre for Gender and Development.

The initiative has also opened doors for women to join business networks and savings groups, boosting their financial independence.

Membership in women’s groups increased as more women could spare time for community engagement.

“Being part of a women’s group has not only strengthened my business network but has also given me confidence,” said another active participant in local women’s savings groups.

These groups, also known as CSLAs, remain the top source of credit, showing the critical role of community support in women’s economic empowerment.

As the program’s success continues to unfold, stakeholders recommend expanding childcare facilities nationwide, especially in high-activity markets and border towns, to support more women in small-scale businesses.

“If we invest in more childcare centers, the economic growth potential for women and families will multiply,” suggested a spokesperson from the Busia county government.