Imara Women Alliance Network (IWAN)

Who we are

Imara Women Alliance Network (IWAN) is a coalition of women’s groups and advocates across Kenya dedicated to advancing gender equality, protecting women’s rights, and empowering communities. Rooted in the belief that collective strength drives lasting change, IWAN unites diverse voices to challenge discrimination, end gender-based violence, and promote social and economic justice for women and girls.

Our Vision

A Kenya where women and girls live free from violence, inequality, and exclusion, empowered to lead, thrive, and transform their communities.

Our Mission

To unite women’s groups and advocates into a powerful alliance that promotes gender equality, protects women’s rights, and drives social and economic empowerment. Through advocacy, grassroots mobilization, and strategic partnerships, IWAN works to end gender-based violence, expand access to justice, and amplify women’s leadership in national development.

What we do

IWAN’s work is grounded in five core areas:

  • Advocacy & Policy Influence – Championing reforms and ensuring women’s voices shape national and county agendas.

  • Protection from Gender-Based Violence (GBV) – Raising awareness, strengthening community response, and supporting survivors.

  • Economic Empowerment – Expanding access to resources, skills, and opportunities for financial independence.

  • Leadership & Participation – Building capacity for women leaders and mentoring young women as change agents.

  • Grassroots Mobilization & Solidarity – Strengthening alliances among women’s groups for collective impact.

Our Values

  • Integrity – Transparency and accountability in all actions.

  • Solidarity – Standing together with women and girls for collective impact.

  • Empowerment – Building capacity and resilience for sustainable change.

  • Justice – Advocating for fairness, equality, and protection of rights.

  • Innovation – Embracing new approaches to address emerging challenges.

Programs

1. Community Awareness Campaigns

We run nationwide campaigns to raise awareness on women’s rights, gender equality, and the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV). Through forums, media outreach, and grassroots mobilization, IWAN empowers communities to challenge harmful norms and stand up for justice.

2. Capacity Building Workshops

IWAN equips women leaders, grassroots groups, and youth advocates with the skills they need to lead change. Our workshops cover leadership, advocacy, financial literacy, and community organizing, ensuring women and girls are prepared to take up roles in governance and civil society.

3. Economic Empowerment Initiatives

We support women’s access to resources and opportunities for financial independence. Programs include:

  • Savings and credit groups to strengthen household resilience.

  • Entrepreneurship training to promote sustainable livelihoods.

  • Market linkages that connect women-led businesses to buyers and partners.

4.Policy Dialogues and Forums

IWAN engages policymakers, civil society, and community stakeholders in open dialogue. These forums ensure women’s voices are integrated into national and county development agendas, influencing laws and policies that safeguard women’s rights and promote equality.

5.Mentorship Programs

We nurture the next generation of women leaders by pairing young women and girls with experienced mentors. These programs build confidence, resilience, and leadership skills, preparing them to become change agents in their communities.

6. Grassroots Mobilization and Solidarity

IWAN strengthens alliances among women’s groups across Kenya. By fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing, we amplify collective impact and ensure that grassroots voices shape national conversations on gender equality and social justice.

Impact

Transforming Lives, Strengthening Communities

At IWAN, impact is measured not only in numbers but in the stories of resilience and empowerment. Every program we run contributes to building a Kenya where women and girls thrive free from violence, inequality, and exclusion.

Key Achievements

  • Leadership Development: Over 1000 women trained in leadership and advocacy since 2022.

  • Economic Empowerment: Established 70 savings groups benefiting more than 700 households, improving financial independence and resilience.

  • Community Awareness: Reached thousands of community members through GBV prevention campaigns and gender equality forums.

  • Partnerships: Collaborated with government agencies, civil society, and international partners to influence policies and strengthen support systems.

  • GBV Response: Supported survivors through referral pathways and community structures, ensuring access to justice and protection.

Stories of Change

  • “Through IWAN’s mentorship program, I gained the confidence to run for a county leadership position. Today, I represent women in my community and advocate for their rights.” – Young Woman Leader, Meru County

  • “Joining a savings group helped me start a small business. Now I can support my children’s education and inspire other women to pursue financial independence.” – Beneficiary, Rural Kenya

Donate to Empower Women

Your contribution helps IWAN:

  • Support survivors of gender-based violence.

  • Expand economic empowerment initiatives.

  • Train women leaders and youth advocates.

  • Strengthen grassroots mobilization across counties.

Partner with Us

IWAN collaborates with government agencies, civil society, and international partners. Together, we amplify impact and drive systemic change. If your organization shares our vision, let’s build a stronger future together.

Why Get Involved?

By joining IWAN, you become part of a movement that:

  • Challenges inequality and discrimination.

  • Protects women’s rights and dignity.

Builds resilient communities where women and girls thrive.

Contact Us – Imara Women Alliance Network (IWAN)