The Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) has joined the 30% club, a global campaign to take action to increase gender diversity in boards and senior management within the workplace, cementing its commitment to enhancing gender equality in corporate leadership in Kenya. By joining the 30% club, the NSE will champion for at least 30% representation of women on boards and senior management of companies listed on the NSE and within the larger Capital Markets. Speaking during the event, Mr. Geoffrey Odundo, Chief Executive, NSE noted, “We are delighted to join the 30% club as we continue to spearhead gender equality and inclusion in Boards and Senior Management of listed companies. This milestone underscores our commitment to supporting companies leverage on various aspects of diversity to enhance business capabilities in a rapidly changing operating environment.” Commenting on the same, Ms. Zuhura Ogada, Chief Executive, New Revenue Solutions Africa, the stewards of the 30% Club East Africa noted “We are happy about this collaboration with the NSE and commend them for joining the 30% club. This announcement is part of a broader initiative run by Business Engage NPC to create a movement for gender mainstreaming in Africa.” she added. As a member of the UN Global Compact and the UN Sustainable Stock Exchanges Initiatives, the NSE is keen on supporting listed companies' leverage on diversity as they seek to enhance their competitive edge.  

SSE and Gender Equality 

Gender equality is one of the 17 sustainable development goals agreed to by UN member States. Stock exchanges are uniquely positioned to influence their market in a way few other actors can. The Sustainable Stock Exchange (SSE) initiative of the United Nations helps stock exchanges build on this position by connecting them with companies, investors and policymakers to support sustainable development in capital markets. More information here.  

2021 Ring the Bell for Gender Equality

This year, the UN Women’s theme for International Women’s Day 2021 – “Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world” celebrates the tremendous efforts by women and girls around the world in shaping a more equal future and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Women leaders and women’s organizations have demonstrated their skills, knowledge and networks to effectively lead in COVID-19 response and recovery efforts. Today there is more recognition than ever before that women bring different experiences, perspectives and skills to the table, and make irreplaceable contributions to decisions, policies and laws that work better for all. There are 89 exchanges planning to hold “Ring the Bell” events this year and you can find more information here.