The data collection phase for the Rapid Assessment for Opportunities for Women's Economic Empowerment in Machakos County has officially begun. Research teams are now on the ground across three sub-counties: Mwala, Kangundo, and Masinga.

Over the next two days, enumerators will be engaging with community members to gather vital primary data as part of this needs assessment. The exercise follows a successful training session where researchers were equipped with and familiarized with the research tools.

This on-the-ground data collection marks a crucial step toward understanding local opportunities and barriers to women's economic participation. Findings will inform the design of a targeted intervention by the University of Nairobi Women's Economic Empowerment Hub in partnership with the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD).