Nairobi, Kenya – May 8, 2025 — Today, the Nairobi Securities Exchange Plc (NSE) proudly unveiled the NSE EmpowerHER Patrons Circle, a dynamic leadership and advocacy platform dedicated to accelerating gender inclusion, improving women’s access to capital, and expanding investment opportunities throughout Kenya.
The vibrant launch event was honored by the presence of Ms. Mary Muinde, Chief of Staff in the Office of Her Excellency The First Lady, Mrs. Rachel Ruto, who represented the First Lady’s steadfast commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment nationwide. Ms. Muinde emphasized the strong alignment between this initiative and the First Lady’s vision, stating:
“On behalf of Her Excellency The First Lady, Mrs. Rachel Ruto, we are proud to champion the NSE EmpowerHER Patrons Circle — a bold initiative that does more than create opportunities; it rewrites the narrative for women in finance, entrepreneurship, and investment. This platform is a powerful step towards building a more inclusive, equitable, and resilient future for Kenya.”
This launch cements a 36-month, action-driven commitment by influential leaders who will mentor, advocate, and strategically engage to elevate women’s participation in the economy. The NSE EmpowerHER Patrons Circle is a beacon of sustained leadership and collaboration designed to institutionalize gender inclusion in the capital markets.
Demi Murila, NSE EmpowerHER Lead, described the program as “not just a program, but a transformative movement.” She added:
“We believe that women deserve the full spectrum of tools, resources, and networks needed to excel as investors, business owners, and market leaders. Through the Patrons Circle, we are embedding leadership, clear structure, and long-term sustainability at the heart of gender inclusion.”
NSE Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Frank Mwiti, shared his enthusiasm for the initiative’s ambitious goals:
“The launch of the NSE EmpowerHER Patrons Circle heralds a new chapter in inclusive finance. We aim to empower 1 million women through financial literacy and investor education, facilitate capital access for over 100 women-led enterprises, and cultivate a vibrant ecosystem of female leaders in capital markets.”
Echoing these sentiments, Kiprono Kittony, Chairman of the NSE, highlighted the critical importance of systemic inclusion:
“Gender inclusion isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s essential for stronger businesses and a flourishing economy. NSE EmpowerHER is unlocking doors and laying down lasting pathways for generations of women to thrive.”
The launch also featured a spirited panel discussion on “Gender Inclusivity in the Economy, Capital Access, and Investment”, spotlighting thought leaders such as Nasim Devji, CEO of DTB; Mary Mulili, CEO of UBA Kenya; Tamara Cook, CEO of FSD Kenya; and Sonal Tejpar, Chairperson of the British Chamber of Commerce.
Backed by robust institutional support and growing momentum, the NSE EmpowerHER Patrons Circle is poised to become a national model for inclusive investing—unlocking Kenya’s full economic potential by ensuring women’s meaningful representation from grassroots education through boardroom leadership.
For media inquiries or to engage with the NSE EmpowerHER initiative, please contact:
Demi Murila
NSE EmpowerHER Lead, Nairobi Securities Exchange [email protected] +254 710 748393