Mary Kinyanjui
Mary Njeri Kinyanjui is an independent scholar with more than 25 years of experience in research focused on development, gender, and the informal economy. Her work spans academic scholarship, development practice, and public thought leadership, with a particular emphasis on understanding the social, economic, and institutional dynamics that shape the lives of marginalized communities. She has authored five books and numerous peer-reviewed journal articles, and her insights frequently appear in leading publications such as the Daily Nation and the African Executive online magazine.
Throughout her career, Dr. Kinyanjui has held significant academic and research roles, including serving as a Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for Development Studies and as a longtime faculty member at the University of Nairobi and Kenyatta University. Her research interests include the logic and institutions of economic informality, grassroots and Indigenous organizational structures, subaltern urbanism, women’s economic experiences, education, trade, and economic justice. She has been recognized for her productivity and impact, including acknowledgment by the University of Nairobi as an emerging and influential researcher. Her academic journey is anchored by a PhD in Geography from the University of Cambridge.
In her current work as an independent scholar and development practitioner, Dr. Kinyanjui remains committed to addressing systemic inequities and advancing knowledge that shifts the narrative around those living at the margins of business and society. She brings empathy, rigor, and a practical approach to her research and writing, and she continues to seek opportunities that allow her to apply her expertise in social work, community development, and structural transformation. Deeply dedicated to empowering overlooked populations, she aims to contribute to more equitable and inclusive social and economic systems.
• Cambridge University
• Kenyatta University
• International Gender
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the incredible support and guidance I’ve received throughout my journey. Professor Siria Namuero and Professor Agnes Musocchi played a pivotal role in shaping my academic path, offering mentorship that strengthened my confidence and direction. I’m also deeply grateful for my parents and sisters, whose unconditional support has carried me through every challenge and accomplishment. Their belief in me has been the foundation of all that I’ve achieved.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering this field to approach it with passion, empathy, and resilience. Education is an incredibly fulfilling career, even if it doesn’t always come with financial recognition. Staying committed to your values, nurturing your curiosity, and caring deeply for those you serve will not only make a meaningful impact on others but will also bring purpose and fulfillment to your own journey.