SIMLESA case research (see Stake 1995) illustrate AIPs are an effective mechanism for gender mainstreaming and addressing strategic interests. This realisation bolstered SIMLESA’s resolve to establish 58 AIPs. Findings among 6 most successful AIPs in Tanzania, Rwanda, Mozambique and Kenya illustrate policy, capital investments, knowledge and skills, access to credit and smart identification of business niches determined gendered access to SI benefits.7 pages