Jennifer Riria, CEO of Kenya Women Finance Trust (KWFT), is among the top three global businesswomen who have been honoured by the Business for Peace Foundation for their role in changing the lives of small-scale business people by extending financial support.

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator Helen Clark Riria announced this year’s Business for Peace Honourees yesterday as she highlighted the role of female business leaders in driving positive societal change as the world marked the international women’s day.

“This year’s winners are exceptional role models who exemplify how ethical and responsible business action can drive positive societal change”, said Clark in the press conference taking place at the Oslo City Hall. “I am visiting Oslo, Norway in connection with International Women’s Day, and I am therefore particularly pleased to present these very distinct and highly successful women leaders”, she added.

Riria was honoured for helping women access capital for business and contributing towards building peace in times of conflicts.

Under her tenure, KWFT has granted loans to 1.5 million marginalized women and their families. The other two winners are Sarah Beydoun (Lebanon) and Tores Laerdal of Norway.

The Business for Peace Award aims to support, inspire, and recognize the global business leaders who are positively changing the face of business.

The Award Ceremony will take place in Oslo City Hall on May 3 as part of the annual Business for Peace Summit.