Quick Answer
The government reserves money and opportunities specifically for women, youth and persons with disabilities — from a guaranteed share of public tenders to dedicated development funds.
Key facts
- A share of government tenders is reserved for women, youth and PWDs.
- Dedicated funds support these groups’ enterprises and projects.
- You must register and get the required documents to qualify.
- These are tools to correct historical exclusion.
Reserved government tenders (AGPO)
Under Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO), a share of government tenders — set at 30% — is reserved for enterprises owned by women, youth and persons with disabilities, giving them a guaranteed route into public contracting.
Dedicated funds
Government also runs funds aimed at these groups — historically the Women Enterprise Fund, the Youth Enterprise Development Fund and the Uwezo Fund (which lends to women, youth and PWD groups at the constituency level), alongside the Financial Inclusion (Hustler) Fund.
These funds are being consolidated into a new Biashara Fund, so names and application routes are changing — confirm the current position before publishing.
How to access them
To benefit, you typically need to register your group or enterprise, obtain the required certificates (for example, an AGPO certificate), and apply through the relevant agency. The opportunities exist, but they have to be claimed.
Why this matters to you
These set-asides only help people who know they exist and how to claim them. For a young entrepreneur or a women’s group, that knowledge can be the difference between a contract won and an opportunity missed.
Frequently asked questions
What share of tenders is reserved?
30% of government tenders, for enterprises owned by women, youth and persons with disabilities (AGPO).
Are there funds for these groups?
Yes — dedicated government funds support their enterprises and projects.
How do I qualify?
Register, obtain the required certificates, and apply through the relevant agency.
Sources & references
- Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO) — agpo.go.ke
- Constitution of Kenya 2010, Articles 55 and 227 — klrc.go.ke