Determinants of Female Labor Force Participation in Kenya

Abstract

Nations are embracing growth of Female Labor Force Participation as it has enabled economies reduce poverty rates, reduce gender inequality, improve economic growth and development, improve living standards within a large share of the population, as well as achievement of other SDGs. Kenya has also taken steps forward to reduce the gender labor gap, however, only a slight change has been witnessed given the government and non-governmental contribution. Previous studies looked into the determinants of Female Labor Force Participation with their approach and duration differing from the one used in this study. This study sought to analyze the determinants of female labor force participation in Kenya using the latest data, that is, 2015/16 Kenya Integrated Household Budget Survey data employing the logit model. The study pursued to provide up to date information on determinants of FLFP, acknowledging the change that may have occurred since the last study of FLFP was done. Findings revealed that education, marital status, age, infrastructure, household head and disability as important determinants of Female Labor Force Participation in Kenya. The study therefore suggested investment in education sector with an aim of ensuring the girl child remains in school up to secondary level. The study also recommended sensitization of the society on inclusion of disabled females by firms by the National Council for People with Disabilities.