Effects of Discrimination of Expectant Ladies on the Economic Performance of Private Firms within the Kenyan Context (A case study of Indian-Owned private firms)

Abstract

Gender discrimination is currently highly affecting the economic performance of Indian-owned private firms within the Kenyan context. This form of discrimination is particularly featuring expectant ladies who are already working or are currently trying to gain access into the work environment within private organizations. This kind of discrimination has not only affected the expectant ladies, but it has also hindered economic development within the firms that allow this practice to continue.

This is evident by the ladies’ careers being halted because they are expectant and hence considered unable to deliver towards the organizations’ objectives. On the other hand, the organization ends up losing valuable employees who would have played a major role in the growth of such firms. Moreover, when some of the ladies discriminated against are bold enough to go to court, the firm losses a lot of money and their identity in the business world is also tarnished, as they have to compensate the lady who is the victim.

Discrimination of ladies on the basis of being expectant has been quietly endured by the victims involved, silently suffering; with very few trying to ensure their rights are protected, as per the Kenyan constitution, under the Employment Act, 2007.

A gender perspective does not look at the situation of women alone but at the conditions of, and relationship between, men and women as well as how these relationships are structured along gender lines (Brettel and Sargent 1993).

Gender analysis is a technique used by researchers, policy makers and development planners and practitioners to provide information on men’s and women’s activity profiles and resource allocations in different sectors of the economy and at different levels. By focusing on gender differences in role and resource allocations, gender analysis attempts to highlight the key differences between men and women in terms of opportunities, incentives and constraints. The central focus of the analysis is on gender differences in access to and control over resources and the differential impact on the lives of men and women (Suda, 2002).

The data obtained from gender analysis will help in the formulation of appropriate gender responsive policies, programs and projects which will address the specific needs of poor men and women with a view to eradicating poverty (Suda, 2002).

Data will be collected using questionnaires, interviews and through research done earlier on Gender discrimination. Research will also involve statistical data that has been analyzed on gender discrimination and review of how the practice is affecting our society over the years.

Keywords:Constitution, Employment Act, discrimination, expectant ladies.